Ethan Hayter: Deep down, I want more and expect more from myself 🇬🇧 🇮🇹
Honest and forthright interview with the British rider after a period of struggles
Hi Subscribers,
The media paddock at a Grand Tour is never a conducive environment for a lengthy or authentic interview. The paddocks are usually where you pick up soundbites and throwaway quotes that are no longer fit for purpose by the end of a stage, but there are those rare occasions where everything, from the timing, the setting and the rider, aligns and you’re gifted with something a little more sincere, heartfelt and genuine.
That happened today when I spoke with Ethan Hayter.
The Soudal Quick-Step rider has always worn his heart on his sleeve in interviews, and I’ve been covering him since his first steps with Team Sky back in 2018.
By his own admission, this has been a tough start to the season for the 26-year-old. He moved from Ineos Grenadiers over the winter, and the transfer was meant to signify a new chapter and fresh start, but he’s struggled since the turn of the year, with his best performances coming in time trials.
In this interview, he talks about his season to date, what he’s been dealing with, and what he expects from himself. Honestly, I could have spoken to him for at least another 40 minutes, but there was the small matter of the Giro stage to contend with.
I came away from the brief interview reminded of how brutally challenging the sport can be, how relentless it is for athletes of any age, and how more patience and understanding could be extended to them, whether they’re on top or still finding their way.
I hope you enjoy the interview. I’ve kept it as a Q&A, while the audio is in WhatsApp for Founding Members.
Finally, Thanks to Ethan for taking the time to talk. 🫶
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Daniel Benson: How has the Giro been for you so far?
Ethan Hayter: It’s been slightly disappointing, personally.
Daniel Benson: What’s been missing for you?
Ethan Hayter: It was obviously a big shame to lose Mikel Landa on the first day, to be honest. That was our first goal as a team, but I’ve just come in not quite at my best. I’ve been a bit average, I’d say.
Daniel Benson: How did the winter go for you?
Ethan Hayter: It went okay. Obviously, with a new team, there were a lot of changes. I just didn’t get into a great rhythm. I got sick in one of the training camps, and then after the Tour of Oman, I got sick again. Then, when you lose a week or so here and there, it’s not ideal. I’ve been trying quite hard.
Daniel Benson: Does it feel like you’re playing catch-up at the moment?
Ethan Hayter: A little bit, yes. There have been some other issues with trying to get my stomach right some days. Maybe it’s because of getting used to the new nutrition on a different team and stuff, with different products. It’s been about learning.
Daniel Benson: You seem a bit frustrated. When you moved teams, it looked like a really good transfer for you. It was a fresh start and a team that races aggressively, has fast finishers and helps riders kick on. Sometimes it doesn’t always pan out as quickly as you want, I guess.