INEOS Grenadiers Sign French Rising Star Kévin Vauquelin for 2026 Season
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INEOS Grenadiers have secured the signature of one of cycling’s most promising talents,Kévin Vauquelin,on a three-year contract beginning in 2026. The 24-year-old French rider arrives with a burgeoning palmarès and a reputation for consistent performance in major stage races.
A Breakthrough Talent
Vauquelin’s rapid ascent in the professional peloton has been marked by important achievements. His breakthrough moment came with winning, securing overall victories at Etoile de Bessèges and the Tour des Alpes Maritimes et du Var. He has also proven his ability to compete at the highest level, finishing second at the 2024 Tour de Suisse and achieving two runner-up finishes at La Flèche Wallonne.
A Seamless Fit for the grenadiers
The INEOS Grenadiers, a team renowned for its success in Grand Tours and across the cycling calendar, see Vauquelin as a perfect fit for their ambitions. A senior official stated, “I’ve been excited to watch Kevin’s progress over the past couple of seasons. Not only is he a punchy rider who knows how to win, at this year’s Tour I was impressed to see him add a new dimension to his racing. He races with intelligence and ambition – qualities that fit perfectly with the Grenadiers.”
Vauquelin expressed his excitement about joining the team,stating,”I’m extremely proud to join a team like INEOS Grenadiers which has shaped the history of cycling for over a decade – both in grand Tours and across the calendar. I’m still in shock.” He acknowledged the importance of his current team, Arkéa-B&B Hotels, where he began his professional career. “Arkéa – B&B Hotels will always be critically important to me. It’s the team where I turned pro, where they trusted me and gave me responsibility. I was able to thrive and learn my job in a calm environment.”
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
Vauquelin is eager to embrace the new challenges and opportunities that await him at INEOS Grenadiers.”I’m really excited to discover a new environment,new teammates,new equipment and a new way of working with the staff group. For me, it’s the logical next step in my career to continue my progression and explore new horizons,” he said.
Reflecting on his experiences in the Tour de France, Vauquelin described the emotional rollercoaster of the race. He recounted a challenging first stage in 2024 followed by the elation of winning in Bologna the next day. this year, he felt well-prepared and confident, discovering new strengths throughout the race, particularly during the stages in his home region of Normandy. “Even now, I think I’ve experienced something wholly wild, and I’m proud of myself,” he shared.”For the future, I know I still have a lot to discover, but I’ll work even harder to get closer to the best.”
The rider also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received from fans. “I never could have imagined it. On some stages, my ears were ringing from hearing my name so much. I even saw my face on a hot air balloon! At the Tour, everything is amplified and I tried to live it to the fullest while staying true to myself. It makes me proud and motivates me a lot. Thanks to everyone for this support, from the bottom of my heart.”
Sir Dave Brailsford believes Vauquelin’s potential is immense. “We believe his best years are ahead of him and we’re excited to help him realise his potential.” The signing of Kévin Vauquelin signals a continued commitment from INEOS Grenadiers to nurturing young talent and maintaining their position at the forefront of professional cycling.
