French prodigy Paul Seixas set for Tour de France debut

Paul Seixas, a 19‑year‑old French rider who leads the Decathlon‑CMA CGM team and won the Flèche Wallonne, is preparing for his first Grand Tour at the 2026 Tour de France. After a June crash that caused only superficial injuries and an MRI that ruled out a fracture, Seixas confirmed he is back to 100 % and focused on making the most of the three‑week race.

He says his objective is to learn, target the best possible overall classification and enjoy the experience, while balancing effort with entertaining the public. Sprinter Olav Kooij will also ride with the team, providing tactical options.

The race comes amid a historic French legacy: 21 French cyclists have won the Tour de France since its 1903 inception, the most recent champion being Bernard Hinault in 1985. Notable multiple winners include Jacques Anquetil (five wins) and other two‑time victors such as Louison Bobet, Bernard Thévenet and Laurent Fignon.