Jan Ullrich - Exclusive Interview for La Primafit

Jan Ullrich is the most successful German road cyclists in history. He is a Tour de France winner, Vuelta a España winner, Olympic Champion, World Champion, and multiple German National Champion.

1. How did you approach nutrition and recovery as a professional – and how has that changed over time?

Nutrition was always a central part of my career, even though we didn’t have the same scientific depth back then as we do today. Much of it came from experience, intuition, and exchange with teammates. Today, the knowledge is far more precise: carbohydrate planning, recovery timing, protein intake – everything is measured. I now understand much better what my body needs and how I can regain form faster.

2. Looking back: What would you have done differently with today’s knowledge?

I would have followed a much more structured nutrition approach. Back then we simply tried to eat enough to cover the energy output. Today we know: quality and timing are just as crucial as quantity. With the knowledge we have today, I’m sure I could have raced with even greater consistency in crucial moments.

3. Your most memorable nutrition moment from your racing years?

Unfortunately, my most unforgettable moment is not a funny one: 1998, Col du Galibier. I was in the yellow jersey. I misjudged my fueling and hit the wall. Hard. From one moment to the next, the power was gone – and with it the Tour. That day taught me: No matter how strong you are — fueling decides everything.


4. How did you fuel your greatest victory?

During the 1997 Tour, the key was steady and continuous fueling — even when I didn’t feel hungry. Eat, drink, repeat. That’s what kept my energy stable and prevented “hitting the wall.”

5. What’s the biggest difference between cycling then and now?

The level of professionalism. Today, nothing is left to chance: nutrition, training, recovery, equipment — everything is optimized. The peloton is faster, the bikes lighter and more aerodynamic. In my time, we learned more through experience and instinct. Today, science leads.

6. What does your training look like today?

Now it’s about joy and balance. I ride, I run, I do strength work — but without pressure. I stay fit, recharge my mind, and enjoy the sport again.

7. How are you still connected to the cycling world?

I’m still in touch with many former teammates and professionals. And through my podcast "Ulle & Rick" with Rick Zabel, I’m very much involved in the current scene — we talk races, personalities, memories. It keeps me close to the sport.

8. What advice would you give to young riders?

Be patient, believe in yourselves — and don’t forget why you ride. Passion is the foundation. Success comes from consistency and joy, not just watts and numbers.

9. Why did you choose to partner with Amacx?

Because I genuinely identify with the brand. Amacx stands for quality, innovation, and true passion for endurance sport. That’s what I live — and that’s what I want to pass on to the next generation.

10. Which Amacx product is always in your jersey pocket?

The Amacx Energy Gels – always. Easy to open, fast to absorb, and they give exactly the boost you need when you need it most. I rarely start a ride without them.