Victor Koretzky responds: hours of training, daily calories, his FTP and much more

From the social media of Specialized Factory Racing, they wanted to share a little more about the current Short Track World Champion Victor Koretzky. And they did it with a "questions and answers" in which the Frenchman offers a lot of curious and interesting information, from his favorite food to his FTP.

Questions and answers with Victor Koretzky

In recent seasons, Koretzky has become one of the top favorites to win any race. And the 2025 season started with a victory in the first XCO World Cup of the year, in Brazil. So there is no doubt that the Frenchman, virtual leader of Specialized Factory Racing, will continue to be one of the most watched in the coming months. At least that's what he reflects in this interview, shared by his team, when he acknowledges that his main goal for this year is to win the World Championship in XCO and XCC.

How often do you train each week and for how many hours?

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It varies between 13 hours during competition weeks to sometimes 30 hours in intensive training blocks. But the main goal is to arrive 100% fresh for the races.

What proportion do you make between road and MTB training?

It depends on the moment, but in a typical training week it's about 60% road and 40% MTB or gravel.

Are your rest days on the bike or off it?

It depends, but for me real rest usually means getting off the bike and spending time with family.

How did you train at 16 years old?

Truth is I don't remember well, but I didn't have a structured training plan. It was just about having fun on the bike and enjoying the ride.

What is your favorite interval training?

I'm not sure I love intervals, but I do enjoy the feeling after a hard session. Especially the 30 seconds on / 30 seconds off efforts.

What is your FTP?

In winter or summer? Haha. It's 430 watts.

What has changed in the last three seasons to make you one of the best XCO cyclists in history?

Just staying consistent with what works for me and always trying new things. Whether in training, nutrition, or bike setup.

How was it to compete in the Paris Olympics?

Crazy! Racing in your country and in front of your family! It left me memories for a lifetime.

When and what was your first MTB race, and how did you do?

I think I was 5 years old, I raced near home at Lac du Salagou. Where we did our concentration last year. And I think I won!

What kind of circuit do you prefer and why is Lenzerheide your favorite?

Fast, technical, and with roots. Lenzerheide, because it has practically everything I just mentioned.

What is your routine before a race?

If the race starts after 3 pm, I ride in the morning. Then it's time for a pre-race meal, some breathing exercises with Denis, and a bit of stretching.

How many hours do you sleep?

Before or after Livio (his son)? Haha. About 8 or 9 hours.

What is your favorite post-training meal?

When Lea cooks her chicken and coconut curry rice!

What is your best cycling advice?

Do it because you love it!

How many calories do you eat per day?

I don't count exactly, but around 3000 on normal days and up to 4500 on heavy training days.

How did you become a professional cyclist?

I competed in the youth categories and always finished at the top. It came naturally. When you're constantly at the top, you just become a professional.

What is your main goal for the 2025 season?

To be world champion in both XCC and XCO.

What is your favorite place to ride a bike?

That's what I love about this sport. You can ride anywhere. It's hard to choose just one place, I enjoy riding wherever it's beautiful.

What studies did you do before dedicating yourself to cycling?

I studied product design for 2 years, and it still helps me today when I talk to engineers. I can better explain how I feel about the bike.

Koretzky's next competition will be this week at the Nove Mesto World Cup.