Ben Healy's understated start to the season in France might seem unremarkable at first glance, but here’s the twist: it’s exactly where he wants to be. As he embarks on his fifth season as a World Tour rider with EF Education-EasyPost, Healy has kicked things off with a pair of races in France, joined by his compatriot and teammate Darren Rafferty. While he didn’t dominate the finals of either event, Healy’s perspective is refreshingly pragmatic. He admits he typically struggles with the first race of the season, so his performance—including a 20th-place finish at the Faun-Ardèche Classic (1.Pro)—was right in line with his expectations. ‘I’m kinda happy with it,’ he shared, a sentiment that underscores his focus on the bigger picture.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is starting the season without a podium finish a sign of struggle, or a strategic move? Healy’s approach suggests the latter. With 3,400 meters of elevation gain, the Faun-Ardèche Classic was no walk in the park, and Paul Seixas (Decathlon CMA CGM Team) emerged as the victor, claiming his second win of the season with a commanding 1:48 solo lead. Healy, meanwhile, finished 5:14 behind, while Rafferty, tasked with supporting Healy, did not finish once his team duties were complete. Jamie Meehan (Cofidis), in his first full pro season, placed 61st at 9:54.
The following day, at the 185km Faun Drôme Classic (1.Pro), Healy finished 44th, just 1:07 behind winner Romain Grégoire (Groupama-FDJ United). Grégoire’s decisive final sprint up the 1km climb sealed his victory, leaving Healy in the chasing group. From an Irish perspective, Meehan and Rafferty placed 63rd and 119th, respectively, rounding out two grueling days of racing for the trio.
And this is the part most people miss: Healy’s history suggests this low-key start is part of his process. Last year, he placed 103rd and 30th in these same events before roaring back with a 4th-place finish at Strade Bianche (1.UWT) the following weekend, kickstarting a remarkable 2025 season. This year, he’s set to race Strade Bianche again next Saturday, where he’ll get a clearer gauge of his early-season form. Rafferty, meanwhile, heads to Italy for the Trofeo Laigueglia (1.Pro) on Wednesday.
Healy’s approach raises a thought-provoking question: Is it better to start the season with a bang, or build momentum steadily? His strategy seems to favor the latter, but what do you think? Is his understated start a sign of calculated preparation, or a missed opportunity for early success? Let’s hear your take in the comments!
