MEET SEBASTIAN BREUER.
Our newest Café athlete is a former German and European marathon MTB champion and winner of Badlands and Unbound XL in the ultra-race space. Tell us more about yourself, Sebastian!
How did cycling first become part of your life?
To be honest, I was too rubbish at swimming and running. So, when it came to the triathlon, cycling was the only option left. I’ve also always been a big fan of the Tour de France. So cycling gave me everything I needed.
How would you describe yourself as a cyclist?
Same like in normal life: I’m like a bag of Haribo. A bit of everything. Climbing, TT, offroad. Sundown is the most beautiful part of the day on my bike.
What draws you to ultra-distance riding?
The journey into the unknown. As far as the eye can see, and beyond. There really is no limit. Neither on the way nor within yourself. Just make the impossible possible.
Winning Badlands and later Unbound XL established you among the world's top ultra-distance riders. What do you think made the difference on those races, and what did you learn?
I think the core requirements are the same. You have to stay fully focused at all times, and in the end it’s like riding a rollercoaster. Up, down, fast, slow, looping. Stay within yourself and just focus on yourself.
From breaking your arm earlier this year to lining up at the Tour Divide, this season has already been full of highs and lows. How would you sum up the first half of your season?
Also a rollercoaster. I had big goals. But that’s life and you have to make the best out of it. Currently, it gives me the chance to take a bit of rest, enjoy some sundowns and after that start training for the second part of 2026. But I am really pround of my two island loops at mallorca and Fuerteventura. I call these projects ‘See it all’ – they’re so much fun, and that’s the reason I like riding my bike all day long. Just to see it all!
The Tour Divide ended much sooner than you had hoped after your frame broke. Can you take us through what happened, and what was going through your mind in that moment?
While cycling through a river, I got caught on a rock and my bike fell about two metres down an embankment. The frame’s broken. Shit happens. At first, I was still thinking about how I could fix it. Then came the realisation that, on this Tour Divide, the world’s most isolated race, it’s not a good idea to cycle 4,500 kilometres with a broken frame. When I realised that, I fell asleep from exhaustion.
Setbacks seem to be part of every ultracyclist’s journey. How do you personally deal with disappointment?
It’s always different. Sometimes it motivates me and I come back to win. Like Badlands 2021 and winning 2022.
Is there a ride or adventure that has shaped you more than any race result ever could?
Sure! The European Connect Trail which was my project to ride across Europe in 30 days in 2024. It was my personal journey to see how beautiful Europe is, and to celebrate that here there are no real border crossings. Amazing stuff and a real dream come true.
What role does equipment play on rides like these?
Equipment is key. Especially stuff like bibs, rain jackets or gloves. Weather can be crazy and clothing is the most important equipment. It always takes me a long time to decide on the clothing. Café du Cycliste is my perfect partner and that's the reason why i decided for this brand.
What's next?
First some sundowns by bike. Then some road races and maybe one more timeacross the Andes in Chile, it’s so nice to be there. Landscape, people, food. Love it!
