The Domestiques

Warny week is here and this episode is stacked. We break down the headlines from the UAE Tour, where Isaac del Toro impressed, Luke Plapp climbed with confidence, and plenty of questions were raised, before diving into the chaos and GC shake-up from the ProVelo round in Tasmania ahead of the Melbourne to Warrnambool Classic. To close, we sit down with Maeve Plouffe for an honest chat about Europe, burnout, rediscovering joy on the bike, and her renewed focus on the track as a home World Cup approaches.

We've got a bit on this week. Peaks Challenge is almost here and the nerves are real. This week the crew dives deep into pacing Tawonga, surviving Hotham, fuelling like your life depends on it, and why the race is often won in the valleys, not on the climbs. Over in Tassie, the ProVelo Super League Tour of Tasmania is shaping up as one of the most open editions in years. With key names absent, the hilltop finish at Poatina could reveal the next breakout climber. In the Middle East, Jayco go on a UCI points raid, Luke Plapp takes a big step forward against Adam Yates, and UAE Tour looms with Remco, Del Toro, and a stacked Aussie contingent ready to test early season form. On the women's side, Demi Vollering returns with intent, while the classics conversation is already heating up.

The crew are back with a deep dive into training, and racing for Peak Challenge. Marko maps out a very real plan to go very fast for a very long time, and Tills slowly realises just how cooked a sub-8 hour Peaks can be. There's serious talk on climbs, watts, group dynamics and strategy. if you're training for Peaks, thinking about Peaks, or just want to feel better about your own climbing, this one hits close to home

The crew unpack a massive weekend of racing at the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, breaking down both the women's and men's editions lap by lap. From Ally Wollaston's historic back-to-back win and the growing depth of women's racing, to a chaotic men's finale shaped by wind, positioning, and split-second decisions, there's no shortage of analysis. The conversation digs into team tactics, standout performances from Mackenzie Koopland, Matthew Brennan, Tobias Lund Andresen and Brady Gilmore, and the fine margins that decide races like Cadel's. Off the road, there's strong opinion on SBS vs Channel 7 coverage, Cyclocross Worlds, rising teams, and the future of the sport. Plus, a major update on the Powercor Melbourne to Warrnambool, confirming dates and putting an end to weeks of uncertainty.

It's an emergency pod as the crew reconvenes to unpack the chaos and intrigue around Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race weekend. From final Tour Down Under reflections to sharp takes on ProVelo, form riders, and tactical trends, the conversation quickly turns serious with bushfires threatening the Surf Coast, Cadel's, and even the Melbourne to Warrnambool. The team dives deep into what route changes, postponements, and uncertainty mean for riders, teams, and momentum across the Australian summer. Expect informed analysis, strong opinions on the women's and men's races, bold podium picks, and the usual mix of insider knowledge, gallows humour, and passionate bike chat.

Fresh off the Tour Down Under, we sit down with Brodie Chapman for a wide ranging and honest conversation about life inside the women's WorldTour. From dissecting UAE Team ADQ's tactics on the Corkscrew to breaking down what really went wrong in the final stage, Peta gives rare insight into decision making under pressure. We dive into her move to UAE, the reality of being a domestique at the highest level, the arms race of equipment and aero gains, and her evolution into one of the world's best time trialists. It's reflective, analytical, and refreshingly human, a proper look at how elite racing actually works when the heart rate is at 190 and the margins are razor thin.

Live from the Trackhouse after Stage 1 of the Tour Down Under, we sit down with newly crowned Australian National Road Champion Pat Eddy for his first-ever podcast appearance. Fresh from pulling on the green and gold, Pat talks through the chaos and chess match of Nationals, the reality of life after a WorldTour contract, and what it feels like to go from sleepless nights to national champion in a matter of days. We dig into his role in the Australian team on Stage 1, the noise around his win, the road ahead with Team Brennan, and why this week in Adelaide feels like more than just another race. Raw, honest, and still buzzing, this is Pat Eddy in the thick of it.

We relive Stage 3 of the 2026 Women's Tour Down Under, where defending champion Noemi Rüegg made history by outsprinting a trio from UAE Team ADQ on the punishing Corkscrew Road to take both the stage and overall victory for a second year in a row, fending off sustained attacks and tactical chess on the final climbs. Matilda and Hollywood unpack how the GC battle unfolded after Ally Wollaston's fast start to the race in Stages 1 and 2, the impact of going up the infamous 'punchy' Corkscrew Climb twice, and Rüegg's calm, aggressive response to pressure that ultimately sealed her repeat triumph in Adelaide's brutal heat.The Domestiques is live at the Black Sheep and Focus 'Trackhouse', and is supported by Aid Station.

Our first live episode of The Domestiques, recorded straight from the Trackhouse during Stage 1 of the Santos Women's Tour Down Under. With the race still fresh, we unpack the opening day chaos, the sprint finish, early GC signals, and what it all means heading into stage two and three. Joined live by Peta Mullins, we dig into the state of women's racing, life on the WorldTour circuit, gravel, crits, commentary, and why the TDU still matters more than ever. Crowd noise. Hot takes. No edits. No filter.

Former TDU winner Sarah Gigante joins Tils to break down the World Tour start list, the stages and who will take home the Orche Jersey! This is a deep dive into the first world tour race of the 2026 season!

The dust has barely settled in Perth and there is a lot to unpack. The Domestiques break down everything that went down at Road Nationals from every angle. We dig into the time trials, crit carnage, junior and U23 breakthroughs, and an elite men's road race that has everyone arguing online. Pat Eddy's stunning national title, Team Brennan's masterclass, Jayco's tactical dilemma, and why Luke Plapp probably does not deserve the pile on he has received.Add in on the ground insights from inside the bunch, behind the commentary mic, and from the couch, plus plenty of laughs, heat-induced suffering, and honest takes on what actually decided the race. Road Nationals done. Summer of cycling is officially underway.

In this episode of The Domestiques, Tills, Marko and Hollywood fire the starter's gun on the Summer of Cycling with a full-blooded preview of the Australian Road National Championships in Perth.From time trial showdowns to crit chaos and road race tactics, the boys break down every key race across juniors, under 23s and elites. We cover Plapp vs Vine, Jayco's numbers game, breakaway maths, dark horses, fashion critiques, heat fears, and the realities of racing Nationals versus watching it from the couch. If you are racing, watching, or yelling at the TV this week, this is your essential Nationals primer.Powered by Aid Station and Black Sheep.

Sometimes the best stories come wrapped in chaos. Fair warning. The internet and audio were very average on this one. The conversation still cuts through. From the elusive AIS development program to the heart of the WorldTour, Simon Clarke has lived just about every version of professional cycling. Astana. Orica GreenEDGE. Cannondale–Drapac. EF Pro Cycling. Qhubeka–NextHash. Israel–Premier Tech. Few riders can say they have seen the sport change from the inside as many times as he has. Marko, Tils and Hollywood unpack a career defined by resilience, adaptability, and surviving at the highest level for over a decade. Thank you for the support this year on The Domestiques. Ride safe. Check out the Trackhouse by Black Sheep Cycling and Focus Bikes at the TDU.

We recap Australia's second-biggest Grand Tour, the Tour of Bright, with special guest Talia Appleton, breaking down the racing, the mix of young guns and seasoned pros on show, and what it all means heading into a massive summer of cycling.Plus, we dig into what INEOS Grenadiers are really building and yes, we confirm the rumour mill is very much true.Get involved in the first race of the 2026 WorldTour with Black Sheep at The Trackhouse. 16 - 25 January. Learn more at https://trackhouse.blacksheep.cc/

This week on The Domestiques, Hollywood, Marko and Tils are joined by Australian WorldTour stalwart Chris Hamilton, the road captain, climber and all-round legend who's spent nearly a decade guiding leaders through grand tours, chaos stages and everything in between.We talk team tactics, life inside the peloton, the role of a modern road captain, the biggest changes, and what's next for the quietly brilliant Aussie who's earned huge respect across the WorldTour. Powered by Black Sheep Cycling.

In this episode, we sit down with Australian cycling sensation Luke Plapp, a man who's had a stellar year and is gearing up for even bigger things next season. Luke shares insights into his whirlwind year, from winning his first grand tour stage to changing coaches. He gives us a sneak peek at his race schedule for next year. We also have a bit of fun talking about the upcoming Tour of Bright, where Luke will be facing off against our very own host, Marko, in what promises to be an epic battle.

This week we dive into the impact of our local hitters, or stronger riders, and how their presence can disrupt group dynamics and lead to challenges in maintaining enjoyable and safe bunches for everyone. This comes off the back of a spate of incidents and behaviours recently.The Domestiques also acknowledge the passing of Gold Medalist and World Champion Paralympian, Paige Greco, our thoughts are with her family and extended community

Join Kell O'Biren and Ali Wollaston, the dynamic power couple of cycling, on the Domestiques Podcast as they reflect on their remarkable year. They share insights into what it's like to live and train in a high-performance household, exploring team morale, gold medal performances, and the pursuit of those elusive one-percent improvements.Plus, get ready for Black Sheep's Blackout Sale starting Wednesday, November 12. Get Early Access here

From United Energy Around the Bay to Gravelista, Dirty Warny to Giro della Donna, and across the ditch to the Tour of Southland, we unpack what it takes for events to not just survive in today's climate, but to ideally thrive.As we look toward a massive 2026 with the Tour de France starting in Barcelona and the Tour de France Femmes kicking off in Lausanne, we also discuss the uncertain future for Jayco's licence and what it means for Aussie riders now free to seek new teams.Powered by Black Sheep

Two World Champions, one Pogačar, and a riding Jesus. We break down all the action from the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Lorne, with the four riders who took it on; Hollywood, Tils, Marko, and special guest Matt Sparnon. Hear the highs, the heartbreaks, and how it all unfolded on the Great Ocean Road.

Recorded on the eve of the Gran Fondo World Championships, this special collab episode between The Domestiques and The WMN Podcast. Sheridan Braatvedt, Georgie Howe, Matilda Raynolds, and Lee “Hollywood” Turner go in depth, talking about nerves, preparation, and what's really at stake with amaterur cycling events like this one.The crew dives into the energy building in Lorne, the stories behind the riders, and why grassroots events like this matter more than medals.And tomorrow - tune in for part two, featuring our very own Mark O'Brien and Matilda Raynolds, fresh off their wins.We'd love for you to jump over to The WMN Podcast for weekly conversations on all things women's cycling.

Join us as we dive into a thrilling weekend of global and local events, including Lombardia, Gravel Worlds, the Dirty Docker, the Women's Ironman World Champs, and the Melbourne Marathon. Don't miss out on exclusive offers: enjoy 10% off your entry to United Energy Around the Bay on October 26 with code HOLLYWOOD, and save 20% on everything at Black Sheep Cycling with code DOMESTIQUES. Plus, get Marko's expert tips for the UCI Grand Fondo Championship.

It's easy to get swept up in the big lights of WorldTour racing, but the heartbeat of cycling still lives at your local club crit, your weekend fondo, or that small-town gravel race. So today, we're reminding everyone: support your local races, show up, cheer, volunteer, because those grassroots events are the foundation of our sport.Use the code DOMESTIQUES to get 20% OFF Black Sheep.

Hollywood, Marko and Tils wrap up an unforgettable World Championships in Rwanda: a shock triumph by Magdeleine Vallieres, pre-race favourites fading out, and Pogačar making history by doing the Tour + Worlds double back-to-back. Add in Remco's drama, the Healy vs Skjelmose tussle inside the Lidl-Trek pecking order, and Hindley battling to survive as gaps opened like a grand tour finale.Use code DOMESTIQUES at Black Sheep to get 20% OFF your next order.

Powered by Black Sheep, check out their Alter the Course Challenge at ⁠https://au.blacksheep.cc/pages/alter-the-course⁠Hollywood and Tils are joined by Matt Wilson, co-founder of the Pro Velo Super League, former pro rider, and DS at Jayco–AlUla during that unforgettable Matt Hayman Paris-Roubaix victory.We dig into whether the 2026 Pro Velo League is going ahead, the headwinds and surprises so far, and the future of talent development in Australia.This is an exclusive chat with Matt Wilson, his first since the Pro Velo wrapped up this season.

In this episode of the Domestiques, we discuss a range of topics including the recent Vuelta a España, emerging talents in cycling, and the upcoming World Championships. We share some personal updates (well - focus on the torn calves of those in the group), highlight key performances from the weekend, and delve into the dynamics of team cycling. The conversation also touches on the growth of women's cycling and the impressive results from the Ironman World Championships.

This week on The Domestiques we're joined by one of the most talked about riders in the peloton - Sarah Gigante. After seven months out recovering from iliac artery surgery, she's stormed back to racing taking 3rd at the Giro and 2nd on the Queen Stage at the Tour de France Femme Avec Zwift. We talk about the whirlwind, coping with the fandom, media, what's next and that descending!

In this episode, The Domestiques celebrates one of the best Tour de France Femmes and reflects on an amazing final weekend of Alpine racing.The powerful history-making performance of Pauline Ferrand-Povet while little Aussie battler Sarah Gigante captured the imagination and won the hearts of a world audience. If nothing else it's a “must listen to” episode - if only to hear Hollywood's unrecognisable and almost muted vocal tones.

The Domestiques, are joined by Anya Louw, teammate of Sarah Gigante and Kim le Court at AG Insurance–Soudal. We unpack the strengths and weakness of the riders, the teams development, and what it's like supporting some of the world's strongest riders.Plus, we preview a massive weekend of racing — the queen stage, the final GC battle, and who's poised to steal the spotlight.Brought to you by Black Sheep Cycling — use code DOMESTIQUES for 20% off and Aid Station — use code thedomestiques for 10% off

Welcome to this week's episode of The Domestiques, joined by Commonwealth Games medalist, and now flying the flag for EF Education–Oatly, Sarah RoyFrom being left off the Tour team in the final minutes, to dissecting SD Worx dynamics, we cover the age gap and the role of a road captain, and will she chase another contract? Proudly brought to you by Black Sheep Cycling and Aid Station!

After a huge weekend on the roads of France The Domestiques asks, and scrutinises, the big question. Who is the GOAT?Either way we are privileged to be living in an era when both living legends continue to entertain the masses.Listen in as the team looks back on three blissful weeks at the TdF before the ladies saddle up for their big week under a French Summer sun at the TdF Femmes.

In a candid and honest interview Michael Matthews speaks to The Domestiques where he reveals and recounts the harrowing days which ruled him out of the Tour de France because of a life threatening health condition.But Bling is confident of a return to the world tour and back to his best sooner than later.Matthews talks up the stunning Queen stage victory by Jayco-Alula teammate Ben O'Connor and shares his thoughts on his close friend Tadej Pogačar who's on his way to securing TdF win number 4.This is a must listen to episode of The Domestiques.

Rest day with Harry Sweeny: He's the MVP of Stage 10. The unsung Aussie hero of the 2025 Tour. And yes he's back on the pod.Harry shares his experiences during the race, including his strategies for nutrition, training, and mental health. The conversation delves into the dynamics of racing, the challenges posed by fans, and the pressures of competing at such a high level. As the Tour progresses, Harry reflects on his goals and the future of his cycling career, emphasising the importance of adaptability and resilience in the sport.Brought to you by Black Sheep - use code DOMESTIQUES for 20% off and fuelled by Aid Station - use code domestiques10 

On the TDFs first rest day, we're joined by Australian GC specialist Jack Haig, the quiet, brilliant climber who's podiumed at the Vuelta, raced every Grand Tour, and carved out one of the most consistent careers in cycling.We dive into life as a professional and how it's changed. The TDF madness and the sliding door moments that got him off the mountain bike and into the world tour. This is a long one but one you can't miss!

An emergency Giro PodGiganti meaning Giant in Italian, Sarah Gigante lit up the Giro Donne with two monster solo wins and a stranglehold on the mountains jersey, taking the final spot on the GC of the Italian Grand Tour. Meanwhile in France all eyes on Bastille Day, with the peloton on their hands and knees heading into the first rest day!Use the code DOMESTIQUES for 20% OFF Black Sheep, and DOMESTIQUES for 10% OFF at Aid Station

The Domestiques are graced by the presence of cycling royalty with the appearance of one of the strongest, fastest and most explosive sprinters of the modern era.Andre Greipel reflects on a brilliant career, remembers his early Aussie connections and talks up the fast men doing the rounds at the 2025 Tour de France.Affectionately known as The Gorilla for his trade mark beast-like power on two wheels, Greipel expresses how he really feels about the nickname.The Domestiques which is powered by Black Sheep where listeners can take advantage of a 20% discount, on all online purchases, by using the code DOMESTIQUES and get 10% OFF at Aid Station with the code DOMESTIQUES

Stage 1 delivered cross-winds, chaos, and a shake-up nobody saw coming. Stage 2 upped the ante with relentless horizontal rain and a classics-inspired showdown. Hollywood and Marko join Matilda Raynolds to dissect the big moves, epic meltdowns, and critical strategies shaping the early days of the Tour de France. Buckle up - it's only Stage 3, and we're already in deep. Presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Aid Station.Use the code domestiques for 20% OFF Black Sheep AND domestiques10 for 10% OFF AID STATION

Amanda Spratt joins The Domestiques!From BMX in Penrith to WorldTour podiums, the darling of Australian cycling Spratty has done it all, Nationals, Giro, Worlds, the Olympics, and more. We chat career highlights, the evolution of women's cycling, racing through adversity, and what's next ahead of the Giro Donne and Tour de France.Thanks to Black Sheep Cycling use code: domestiques 20% off and welcome aboard Aid Station use code domestiques10 for 10% off your order

The Domestiques welcomes Jensen Plowright to the hot seat. After gaining small wins at the Giro in his maiden Grand Tour, the Melbourne native is making a fist of his recent good fortunes. Overcoming early season illness was a priority and now Jensen has put world cycling on notice. Will he or won't he be considered for selection at the Tour de France? Listen in to find out. Remember to use code DOMESTIQUES for 20% OFF at Black Sheep Cycling.

The UCI dropped a bomb - new tech regs that make zero sense (especially for women), and we're here to pick it apart. Marko is back and we talk about his watt bombs, Tadej's Dauphiné dominance, Matthews' shock exit, and Marlen Reusser's epic return at Tour de Suisse - it's all in here. Plus: What makes pros hit peak numbers on Stage 21? Are we heading for pro-only $30k bikes? And is split-screen coverage the future of cycling?Also featuring: Pogacar's 100th win looming, Giro-Tour scheduling chaos, Tour de Suisse GC shakeups, and one last word on e-bikes (sorry, not sorry, Tomo)Brought to you by Black Sheep. Use code DOMESTIQUES for 20% OFF

In this special episode of The Domestiques, Mike Tomalaris speaks candidly with the CEO of Bicycle NSW, Peter McLean to discuss the issue of e-bikes.While the growth of the pedal assisted two wheelers are encouraged it's the rapid rise of the illegal machines that is of great concern.The e-bike revolution is a national hot topic. Are they a scourge on society or does the electric powered machine actually provide some benefits?

When Chris Harper crossed the finish line triumphant in the Giro's Queen stage, Australia's cycling community rode on the back of his shoulders. The Domestiques is privileged to have the toast of Aussie cycling as special guest in this week's episode. How did he do it? What were the tactics? How significant is the result to his career? And does Harper have ambitions of chasing the General Classification at future Grand Tours? This episode is one to savour as the team reflects on one of the most memorable Giro's in recent memory.

A very moving interview with an Australian cycling hero on The Domestiques this week.Matt Lloyd's career was prematurely cut down when he was struck by a car in the USA. It left him with a brain disorder.A condition which has affected his life to this day. After being crowned Australian road race national champion in 2008 and conquering the Mountains Classification at the 2010 Giro, Matty was regarded as one of cycling's great climbers.Listen to his amazing story of survival and his openness to share his struggle.This is a must-listen to interview with one of Aussie cycling's quiet achievers as the Giro enters its final week.

Kaden Groves throws down in a sprint, Australia's cycling son Luke Plapp lights up Stage 8, and our very own Marko adds another trophy to the mantel - this time, the UCI Seven title.We unpack the Gravel chaos, GC drama, and can Plappy be a GC rider.Use code DOMESTIQUES for 20% Black Sheep Cycling off the winter range.

The opening stages of the Giro are done and dusted and while Albania has been praised for hosting the 2025 Grand Partenza, there's talk of Australia playing a hosting role in 2027.The Domestiques break down the possibilities of such a huge logistical exercise actually happening.Is it a pipe dream?You may be surprised.Matilda dissects the Giro's first three days of competition while Hollywood, a pickleball convert, talks us through her new range from Black Sheep.And the team discuss the ins and outs after a roller coaster week of changes at Jayco-AlULa.

The 2025 Giro d'Italia is here and The Domestiques welcomes an Aussie favourite chasing overall honours. Michael Storer joins the team fresh from conquering the Tour of the Alps. He's is among 12 Australians starting Italy's Grand Tour and is primed for what promises to be a challenging three weeks. And hear Hollywood who talks about taking on a new sport - it involves a bat! Listen to a comprehensive Giro preview only in The Domestiques.

Imagine jumping on a bike and facing the daunting task of racing the two wheeler across the United States facing all the natural elements and obstacles in the shortest possible time.Not only has Allan Jefferson completed the task, he conquered the most challenging ultra-endurance event in 2022 - Race Across America (RAAM).Mike Tomalaris travelled to Townsville for the world premiere of a documentary which features Allan's attempt in for a second individual overall RAAM victory.Listen to the 1-on-1 interview on a fascinating man who won't take no for an answer in everything he has achieved - on a bike and life in general.

Our man Marko O'Biren is your new Aussie National Gravel champ, we cover Liège-Bastogne-Liège and is Michael Storer Australia's best GC rider right now? All that and your typical banter and controversy. Big thanks to Black Sheep - use the promo code domestiques for 20% OFF.

The Herald Sun is back and so is Remco. Did Tadej lose because of his sunglasses? Unlike Gicconi, Amstel Gold brings more questions than answers and surprise winners all round. Hollywood, Tils and Marko are back for a quick-fire round. Happy Easter!Shop Black Sheep Cycling 20% off with the code: domestiques

Brought to you by Black Sheep Cycling. Use code "domestiques" new range live now, and yes, there's 20% OFF for all the domestiques out there. The most feared weekend for riders, the most loved by fans Paris-Roubaix delivered again. This week, we break down the madness with Hollywood Elvis Turner, Mark'O and Tils. We're talking Pauline Ferrand-Prévot's historic first for France, SD Worx misfire, and Vos's selflessness. On the men's side, Van der Poel was untouchable except for a water bottle on his way to a golden cobble hat trick, Tadej bonks, Mads breaks hearts, Wout diesels and sprinting at 140km to go.

Mike Tomalaris spent a weekend with the voice of cycling, Phil Liggett, at his home in England.Use the code domestiques for 20% OFF at Black Sheep.