Published on : 10/07/2025
At 34, the Toulouse native has decided to retire, bringing to a close a ten-year career marked by five victories and daring breakaways, particularly on the roads of the Tour de France. A rider with a big heart and a key figure in the team, he has shared his good spirits and enthusiasm with his teammates. The entire Cofidis team warmly thanks him for a decade by their side.
HIS CONFIDENCES: A choice that feels good for me.
On announcing his retirement:
“Retirement became inevitable the moment I realized my chances of winning were slipping away. Despite my dedication and seriousness, I understood that I was no longer performing at the level needed to win races. I couldn’t see myself continuing, especially knowing all the sacrifices required to stay at the top. But this decision isn’t sad on the contrary, it feels good for me. I leave with a smile and my head held high!”
His best memories:
“What will stay with me is my breakaway with Stéphane Rossetto at Liège–Bastogne–Liège (2017). Being at the front in the finale of a Monument is incredible! I also think of all my victories, each as meaningful as the others. There were also breakaways, notably the two on July 14th during the Tour de France (at the Galibier and Col du Portet). And what truly remains are the friendships and strong bonds I’ve built throughout my career.”
“To be serious without taking yourself too seriously.”
An exemplary teammate.
“At first, I know my personality sometimes surprised people. I’m a jokester, I enjoy irony and humor. For me, it’s important to be serious without taking yourself too seriously. It’s become my trademark, and everyone understands that this is just who I am. I like to bring good vibes and a positive atmosphere, which can be invaluable during races.”
His loyalty to Cofidis.
“I remember a photo I took at 11 years old alongside David Moncoutié. He was the one who made me want to wear the Cofidis jersey. It was the team of my dreams when I turned professional. The team had a real racing spirit, with heroic riders like David, Sylvain Chavanel, and so many others… I hope the team can inspire cycling enthusiasts or young riders to ride with their parents wearing the Cofidis jersey. And I hope, in my small way, that I’ve helped spark that feeling in some young riders.”
The evolution of cycling.
“Society evolves, and cycling evolves with it that’s no secret. What has changed a lot recently is the optimization of everything that contributes to a rider’s performance. We pay close attention to nutrition and spend more and more time at altitude training camps. The positive side is that it allows young riders to reach the best version of themselves very quickly. But at the same time, it’s very demanding, sometimes mentally tough. The pace of change is so fast that we even question whether we should limit the speed!”
His future.
“It’s still a bit early to speak in detail, but I have ideas for a future in cycling, not necessarily with the pros. I really want to pass on my knowledge, help, and support young riders. I love this sport too much not to share my passion.”
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
5 victories
Tour du Luxembourg, Stage 3 (2017)
Tour du Luxembourg, Stage 4 (2018)
Tour des Alpes-Maritimes et du Var, Stage 1 (2020)
Classic Loire-Atlantique (2022)
Faun Drôme Classic (2023)
9 Grand Tour participations
6 Tour de France
1 Vuelta a España
2 Giro d’Italia
10 Classics participations
3 Il Lombardia
7 Liège–Bastogne–Liège
A LOOK FROM…
Raphaël Jeune, Cofidis General Manager:
“I want to warmly thank him for all these years, having spent his entire professional career at Cofidis. He was a very important rider for the team, and also a remarkable personality. In every race, he managed to bring the team his good humor, kindness, empathy, and professionalism. The whole team wishes him a wonderful retirement, and we all hope he enjoys time with his loved ones, as he knows so well how to do.”
Benjamin Thomas:
“With ‘Antho,’ I immediately appreciated his spontaneity and good humor, both on and off the bike. We share the same vision of cycling, one that focuses more on enjoyment and emotions than numbers. When I joined the team, he took me under his wing, and we quickly became friends. What I remember most are the group moments, training camps, and rides together during winter or the season, especially in the gorges of Aveyron. I recall 5 to 6-hour rides where we talked about everything and nothing, and time just flew by! I wish him all the best with his family. I know he’ll take great care of them, and I have no doubt about his future!”
Eddy Finé:
“What I love most about ‘Antho’ is his ability to always have the right word to make people laugh and create a great atmosphere. That’s what defines him the most. I remember one of my first races, the Tour du Haut-Var: we gave everything, and ‘Antho’ took the win. I hope he continues to enjoy himself in his new life. And above all, I hope he stays the same the ‘Antho’ we all love.”