Rolland's 2027 race plans

Pierre Rolland, a two-time Tour de France stage winner, has revealed his intention to compete in at least three major ultra-distance cycling events in 2027, according to a report from Route - Pierre Rolland.

Transition to ultra-distance cycling

Rolland, who retired from professional cycling four years ago, has been gradually shifting his focus to ultra-distance cycling. In 2026, he completed six to seven events across various locations, including Morocco, Brazil, Peru, and Corsica, on both road and gravel surfaces.

Notable ultra-distance experience

One of Rolland's most notable experiences was the BikingMan event in Peru, a 1,200-kilometer race with 24,000 meters of elevation gain. The event includes sections at 4,000 and 5,000 meters altitude, and Rolland finished it in three and a half days.

Ultra-distance cycling sensations

Rolland described ultra-distance cycling as offering heightened sensations compared to traditional racing. He explained that the prolonged duration and difficulty amplify the experiences felt on the bike, making it a unique challenge.

Caution on long-distance cycling

Despite his enthusiasm, Rolland warned against the normalization of long-distance cycling. He stressed the importance of proper preparation and training for such events, noting that he avoids the Transcontinental Race due to its length and time constraints from his current roles.

Reflections on 2026 cycling season

Rolland reflected on the 2026 cycling season, praising the overall performance of the sport. He highlighted the emergence of Paul Seixas and the progress of Paul Magnier, noting the intense rivalries in major races.

Rivalries and media handling

Rolland particularly mentioned the strong competition faced by Tadej Pogacar, including from riders like Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Filippo Ganna. He commended Seixas for managing the media attention he has received and noted that Seixas is well-supported by his team in handling the pressures of public exposure.