Emilien Jacquelin focuses on cycling

Emilien Jacquelin, a 31-year-old biathlete from Villard, is shifting his focus to professional cycling with the Decathlon-CMA CGM team. He has been making a name for himself in cycling competitions while stepping away from biathlon.

Advice from biathlon coach

Siegfried Mazet, the shooting coach for the French men's biathlon team, met with Jacquelin last spring to discuss his career plans. Mazet advised Jacquelin that he must commit fully to one sport, either cycling or biathlon, and that returning to biathlon later would require total dedication to cycling first.

Jacquelin's cycling performances

Jacquelin has participated in several professional cycling races, including the Marius-Vial Cycling Grand Prix, where he placed fourth, and the Polynormande, where he finished 88th. He also took part in the 2026 Mediterranean Games road race, securing 14th place.

Team support and results

Jacquelin was part of the Tour of Great Britain, where he finished 93rd in the first stage and 60th in the second. He also supported teammate Noa Isidore during the Tour du Limousin, where Isidore won the first stage, and Jacquelin finished 74th in the second stage and 26th in the queen stage.

Cycling challenges and setbacks

Jacquelin faced challenges in other races, including the Grand Prix de Fourmies, where he finished 118th, and the Grand Prix de Wallonie, where he was dropped and had to abandon the race. These results highlight the competitive nature of professional cycling.

Biathlon season skipped

Jacquelin has officially announced that he will not compete in the 2026/2027 biathlon season to focus on cycling. His fellow French biathlete Simon Fourcade expressed that Jacquelin's absence will be felt, but he supports Jacquelin's decision.

Support from fellow athletes

Eric Perrot, another French biathlete, also supported Jacquelin's transition, saying he is too strong to be limited to a supporting role in biathlon. This indicates that his peers recognize his potential in cycling.

Jacquelin's shooting session

Recently, Jacquelin took his 22 long rifle out of the garage and gave a coaching session to Paul Magnier, a cyclist from the Soudal Quick-Step team. He performed a standing shot, hitting all five targets in a short time, though it is unclear if this was his first attempt.

Future in biathlon uncertain

Jacquelin has expressed uncertainty about returning to biathlon, with reports suggesting he may not compete until the 2028/2029 winter season if he completes the 2027 cycling season. According to L'Equipe, he will not participate in the 2026/2027 biathlon season.