EX PRO RIDER, COMMENTATOR, CYCLING CELEBRITY, ETC
MATT STEPHENS
Born
1970-01-04
Nationality
UK
Wearing
Grand Tour - La Corsa Rosa
Team Heritage - MER
GET TO KNOW Matt Stephens
9 quick questions to Matt
#1 What inspired you to pursue professional road cycling, and what was the most memorable moment of your racing career?
Standing on Alpe d’Huez at the 1986 Tour de France with my Dad, watching Greg LeMond and Bernard Hinault ride past me as a 16 year old was a moment that inspired me to want to turn pro. Winning the British Elite Road Race Championships solo in front of my family remains my truly special moment.
#2 After retiring from racing, how did you navigate the transition into becoming a cycling presenter and content creator?
Certain media opportunities came my way when I was still a serving police officer (and a UCI Conti team manager) where communication was a vital element of both roles. Moving into presenting and commentating felt quite natural, a sort of progression. Conveying information and storytelling has always been something I’ve been fascinated with, so for me, to be able to do this was a real privilege, but also there’s an enormous responsibility to it. I also love that I can really be myself and I’m not constrained to be like anyone else.
#3 What do you enjoy most about presenting in the cycling world compared to competing?
Not suffering!!! But seriously, looking at all of the various elements of our sport from a different perspective and trying to convey the emotions and complex tactics to people all over the world is something that I’ll never tire of.
#4 What does cycling mean to you now, and how has your relationship with the sport evolved over the years?
Cycling really is my world still. I think it’s fair to say that I love riding more than ever as I can stop and appreciate my surroundings more and importantly dictate how fast or slow I want to go! Making the choice of when to hurt myself (or not) in training is now down to me. Not a coach or another rider. That is very liberating!
#5 Cycling is not just a sport, it’s a lifestyle. How important is style for you, both on and off the bike?
I’ve always been interested in culture, fashion and art but more so since I stopped racing. Looking good on and off the bike is something that is important to me, but I don’t always play by other peoples rules. What I wear is an extension of my personality and I like to have a bit of fun!
#6 What role do you think a well-designed watch plays in a cyclist's lifestyle?
I see the watch as something that puts the finishing, classic touches to the way you look on and off the bike. I’ll be honest, I didn’t use to wear a watch prior to getting my first Bravur. Now I can’t take it off! It’s also way more satisfying to glance at your wrist to tell the time then pull out your phone! Finally, it just looks cool in my humble opinion!
#7 Outside of cycling, what are some of your other passions or hobbies?
Music and movies have always been two things I love to dive deep into but of late it’s art that I spend most of my free time dedicated to. Whether that be visiting galleries or museums or reading about the history of art or adding a print or painting to my growing collection. I’ve also met some new, special friends through the art world as well as realising that lots of people who ride bikes also have a real love of art.
#8 Many people might not know this, but you have worked as a police officer! How did that period in life affect you?
I learnt an incredible amount about myself when in the police as well as how to deal with stressful, dangerous situations with high stakes. This has given me the ability to put life into real perspective as well as an understanding of why compassion and communication are so important.
#9 Out of the Bravur watches, which one stands out as your favorite, and why?
The ‘La Corsa Rosa’ is my Bravur watch of choice. Firstly because the Giro is the only Grand Tour I rode so I have some wonderful memories that I’m reminded of when I look down to tell the time. The watch itself is the epitome of subtle, understated style. It’s elegant and has a classic yet modern feel which I love. It has a the perfect balance of ‘rosa’ too.