Five unknown facts: Zdenek Stybar

Five unknown facts: Zdenek Stybar

In January, we kicked-off a season-long series focused on unknown things about our riders. Very likely, everybody is aware how the Etixx – Quick-Step riders came into the sport or what are their biggest results to date, but few or none know what movies and music they enjoy, or where they like to spend their holidays. Here's your chance to find out all these.

Superstitions: If I get a good result in a race, then for the next one I try to do the same things in the morning before the start. Also, ahead of a race, I like to call at home and talk to my wife and my son. It's tough to be away so much time from Lewis, as I love being a father and I'm enjoying each minute that I get to spend with him.

Favourite music: I like music a lot, but I don't have a favourite artist or band. When I'm traveling by car together with my family, we listen a top of the '80s or of the '90s. Then, when everyone is sleeping, I change it to house music.

Favourite food: Pasta is up there at the top of my list. Actually, if you're a rider and you don't like pasta, then it's not ok. Of course, I can never say no to the typical Czech food made by my mother.

Favourite holiday destination: In the past, after the season was over, we used to go somewhere where it was sunny. Now that I am a father, things have changed completely, and most recently we went in the Czech Republic to a health & wellness center. We don't have anymore that feeling that we need to go at the beach and stay in the sun. We like it as it is now, and it's really great.

Other sports I follow: I watch ice hockey on a regular basis; my favourite team is Plzeň, the 2013 Czech Extraliga Champion. I also watch football, but only from time to time, when the national team's involved or when there's some really big matches in the Champions League.

Photo credit: ©Tim De Waele