The Racer

In the summer of 1998, the initial stages of the Tour de France are moved to Ireland. Dom Chabol, a Belgian cyclist in his late 30s, has spent two decades as one of the top “Domestiques” in the Tour. This role involves selflessly setting the pace, shielding teammates from the wind, and supporting the team’s sprinter to achieve victory, with no chance of personal glory. Despite this, Dom secretly dreams of donning the yellow jersey just once before retiring. As he embarks on what is likely his final Tour, he is abruptly cut from the team he has devoted his life to. His close friend Sonny, the team’s masseur, struggles to offer him comfort about his prospects. However, an unexpected encounter with Lynn, a young Irish doctor, eases his disappointment, and Dom begins to embrace—and even relish—the thought of life beyond cycling. Just as he prepares to return home and reconcile with his estranged sister, a major doping mishap sidelines another teammate, thrusting Dom back into the race.