French cycling's emerging talents

At a time when Paul Seixas already represents French cycling internationally at the age of 20, hundreds of talents remain behind him and are unknown to the general public. However, among these young riders, some French cyclists stand out and already have their future mapped out.

Soen Le Pann's potential

Soen Le Pann, 17 years old and a climber, may be the greatest French talent of his generation. The Frenchman was among the most consistent juniors of the 2026 season, with a perfect record of ten victories in six months. His only blemish was a 17th-place finish at Paris-Roubaix.

Injury and recovery

Soen Le Pann has been absent from competitions since August due to a knee injury. If this injury does not hinder his progress, there is a good chance he will be found at the top of the standings among professionals within three years.

Simon Defrance's achievements

Simon Defrance, 18 years old and a classic rider, already has all the makings of a champion. Trained in Belgium with the Soudal Quick-Step team, he has won the French championship and finished second at the world championships.

Versatile skills

Simon Defrance is particularly complete, capable of winning time trials, in the climbs, and in the sprints. He stands out especially in the Flemish mountains, having achieved the double of Kuurne-Bruxelles-Kuurne and Nokere Koerse at the beginning of the season.

Aubin Sparfel's rise

Aubin Sparfel, 20 years old and a puncheur, is one of the top prospects among juniors worldwide. He has already made a strong impression among professionals by winning the Lotto Grand Prix de Wallonie at the end of the season.

WorldTour debut

In 2027, Sparfel will make his first season in the WorldTour, after having completed all his categories within the Decathlon CMA CGM team. It remains to be seen if he will now be able to confirm his qualities on the road.

Victor Devos' progress

Victor Devos, 17 years old and a classic rider, has already distinguished himself as one of the most prominent riders in his category. Trained within the Soudal Quick-Step team, the young Frenchman is progressing day by day.

Flemish strength

Victor Devos seems particularly skilled on the demanding Flemish courses, where he can show his full power. Like Seixas at the same age, Devos also has a fondness for cyclo-cross and has a lot of ambition.

Maxime Vezie's journey

Maxime Vezie, 20 years old and a puncheur, has always remained outside the radar of the big WorldTour teams. Trained at the VC Pays de Loudéac club, the Breton made his junior classes at the national level.

Continental team development

In the junior category, Maxime Vezie continued his development within the continental team of CIC Pro Cycling Academy. He has managed to make a name for himself in the top of the standings with notably a third place at the Tour of Brittany and Paris-Camembert.