Paul Seixas takes responsibility for crash yet battles back in Tour

French cyclist Paul Seixas, a rising star with Decathlon‑CMA CGM, suffered a high‑speed crash on the Côte de Saint‑Maurice‑de‑Rotherens during the seventh stage of the Tour Auvergne‑Rhône‑Alpes. He admitted the error, saying, “It was a stupid mistake, completely my fault,” and apologized to fellow riders. Despite losing about four minutes, Seixas pursued the peloton for roughly 60 km, rejoining the lead group before the final climb to Grand Colombier, where he ultimately finished seventh overall, 1:21 behind the winner.

Separately, the team announced that veteran Romain Bardet will partner with Seixas, forming a mentor‑protégé duo within Decathlon‑CMA CGM. The collaboration aims to strengthen the squad’s competitive prospects and develop young French talent, with Bardet providing strategic experience and Seixas offering emerging potential.

Together, the crash incident and the new partnership highlight both the challenges and aspirations of the French cycling program as it targets improved performances in upcoming tours.