Lance Armstrong and Jan Ullrich, two of the most iconic and controversial names in professional cycling, are set to reunite in what promises to be one of the most anticipated events in the sport’s history. On May 17-18, 2025, the former bitter rivals will come together for the Jan Ullrich Cycling Festival in Bad Dürrheim, Germany, giving fans the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the cycling legends side by side.
For years, Armstrong and Ullrich’s rivalry defined the early 2000s in cycling, particularly during the Tour de France. Their fierce battles on the road captured the attention of millions, but their personal relationship was far from cordial. Both men pushed each other to their limits, with Armstrong eventually becoming the most decorated Tour de France rider of all time—until he was stripped of his titles due to doping allegations. Ullrich, once Armstrong’s greatest challenger, also faced his own struggles with performance-enhancing drugs, adding even more layers to their complex history.
The reunion at the festival marks a significant turning point in their relationship. Time has healed many wounds, and both men have reflected on their past mistakes. Armstrong has spoken openly about his doping and the toll it took on him personally and professionally. Ullrich, too, has faced his own demons, having battled addiction and depression in the years after his cycling career ended.
The Jan Ullrich Cycling Festival promises more than just a reunion of these two legendary cyclists. It will be a celebration of their careers, their rivalry, and their shared passion for the sport. Fans will have the unique opportunity to engage with Armstrong and Ullrich in ways that were once unimaginable. There will be autograph sessions, Q&A panels, and even a chance to ride alongside the two former champions.
The event also represents a moment of redemption for both Armstrong and Ullrich. While their pasts are filled with controversy, their legacies in cycling are undeniable. Armstrong’s seven Tour de France victories—despite being annulled—continue to stand as a testament to his prowess as a rider. Ullrich’s Olympic gold and World Championship titles are reminders of his raw talent and determination, even if his career was marred by scandal.
For cycling fans, this reunion is nothing short of a spectacle. Armstrong and Ullrich were two of the most dominant forces in the sport during the late 90s and early 2000s, and the chance to witness them together again is a moment fans won’t want to miss. The festival will also bring a sense of closure to a chapter in cycling history that has long been filled with intrigue and drama.
Both Armstrong and Ullrich have made it clear that this event is not just about celebrating their past, but also about looking toward the future of the sport. In a recent interview, Armstrong stated, “We’ve both been through a lot, but we’re here to celebrate cycling and show the next generation what the sport is all about.” Ullrich echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of teaching younger riders about the challenges and joys of cycling, both on and off the road.
The festival is expected to draw fans from around the world, many of whom have never had the chance to see Armstrong and Ullrich in person. For those who have followed their careers, this is an opportunity to witness the culmination of years of rivalry and personal growth. The cycling community has eagerly awaited this moment, and Bad Dürrheim is set to become a pilgrimage site for anyone who has ever been inspired by these two giants of the sport.
As the event approaches, speculation continues to swirl about what Armstrong and Ullrich might say to one another when they finally come face to face after years of tension. Will they bury the hatchet once and for all? Or will their complicated history resurface in front of the fans? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the Jan Ullrich Cycling Festival will be a historic occasion, one that no cycling fan will want to miss.
With both men now retired from competitive cycling, this festival serves as a reminder of the passion and intensity that defined their careers. It also shows how the sport has evolved and how Armstrong and Ullrich have changed as individuals over the years. The Jan Ullrich Cycling Festival isn’t just about celebrating the past; it’s about embracing the future, and for Armstrong and Ullrich, this festival marks a new chapter in their enduring legacy in cycling.