- Cycling pro Politt needs a bathroom break and ends up in a famous cafe
Nils Politt couldn't have chosen a more famous spot for an urgent toilet break. The 30-year-old suddenly experienced stomach problems during the Olympic road race, desperately needing a quiet place. With his race already run, the Cologne native simply stopped on the final lap in Paris - and ended up in the renowned "Café des 2 Moulins" from the film "Amélie".
Several videos circulating on the platform X show Politt in the café filled with fans. Smiling relieved, the Classics specialist navigates through the crowd, climbs over the barrier, and gets back on his bike. Politt finishes in 70th place, nearly 20 minutes behind.
Politt was doing well before the break
"I was in the right group, my legs were good, but suddenly I had stomach problems and had to stop the race. I have no idea what caused it, but that was the end of my race. I'm very disappointed," said Politt.
Politt was in contention for the Olympic victory of Belgian Remco Evenepoel and even initiated the spectacular finale around the famous Sacré-Cœur on Montmartre. About 60 kilometers from the finish, Politt's teammate and Tour de France winner Tadej Pogacar attacked and built a nearly one-minute lead with four other professionals. However, 33 kilometers from the finish, Politt's stomach gave out.
"Nils showed good instincts, was in the right group, unfortunately he then had stomach problems. It's a shame that the result doesn't reflect Politt and Schachmann's performance," said national coach André Greipel. "In the end, it was a race of man against man." Schachmann, the second German starter, finished 28th and later complained about the few supply points.
Despite his stellar performance, Politt had to abandon the race near the finish line in Paris due to unexpected stomach problems. After taking a brief break at the famous "Café des 2 Moulins", made popular by the movie "Amélie", Politt continued his journey towards the Olympic victory, albeit with a significant delay.
