Oscar Onley's Journey to the Top

Oscar Onley, the 22-year-old Scottish cyclist, has set his sights high at the Tour de France 2025. Competing in only his second Tour, Onley has already made a significant impact, finishing sixth and fourth in the first five stages. His performances have placed him alongside cycling legends like Tadej Pogacar, Mathieu van der Poel, and Jonas Vingegaard.

Early Stages and Ambitions

Onley's ambition to win a stage at the Tour de France is bold, especially for such a young rider. Despite not yet securing a victory, his consistent performances against top-tier competitors have been remarkable. "It's pretty cool - it doesn't get much bigger in terms of races and competitors," Onley remarked. "It's nice to prove to myself I can be there right at the top."

Background and Breakthroughs

Onley's journey began in the Scottish Borders, where he joined the local cycling club, Kelso Wheelers. Initially involved in various sports, including cross-country running, Onley eventually committed to cycling. His breakthrough came in 2024 at the Tour Down Under, where he claimed his first professional victory on Willunga Hill. This success was followed by a second-place finish at the Tour of Britain, despite dealing with two broken collarbones due to crashes.

Current Form and Future Goals

This year, Onley has continued to impress, securing a podium finish at the Tour de Suisse and winning stage five. Known for his strength in hilly terrains, Onley is based in the high mountains of Andorra, preparing for the challenging stages in the Alps and Pyrenees. His calm demeanor and fearless approach make him a formidable competitor in the madness of the Tour.

Long-term Aspirations

Onley and his team remain focused on the immediate goal of winning a stage rather than aiming for a top-10 finish. However, the long-term vision is clear: to become a serious contender in the Grand Tours of France, Italy, and Spain. "That's the pinnacle, really," Onley said. "It's a plan we have as a team. Just now, it's difficult to say how far I can take that, because I've never tried it before. That's the goal, though."

In the short term, Onley aims to continue making a name for himself on cycling's biggest stage, solidifying his place among the sport's elite.