Published on : 11/17/2025
A former professional rider, Sébastien notably worked with Intermarché–Wanty. The Belgian strengthens the staff as Sports Director and will team up with Sébastien Hinault for races held in Belgium.
For Sébastien Demarbaix, working within Team Cofidis was an obvious choice. The former rider lives just an hour from the team’s service course. “I’ve wanted to join the team for several years,” he admits. “Now you could say the stars have aligned!”
"Putting the human element at the center of our priorities"
During his professional career, which ran from 1996 to 2002, Sébastien stood out for his climbing abilities. But he is also no stranger to Flemish races, describing himself as “a versatile rider.” After transitioning to a Sports Director role, he worked with Intermarché–Wanty as well as Bingoal.
“What I try to do as much as possible is to keep the human aspect at the center of our priorities,” he explains. “Performance isn’t just about watts and data it also comes down to mentality.” Sébastien enjoys building close relationships with the riders to understand them well and encourage them to always give their best. Above all, he believes in the group’s ability to give everything and shine. “The team has all the talent needed to aim for top results and take victories, in Belgium and elsewhere. I’m sure everything will click!” We can’t wait for the season to start!
THEY SAID
Sébastien Demarbaix, new Sports Director:
“It’s a pleasure to be joining Team Cofidis. I’ve wanted to be part of the team for several years, and now you could say the stars have aligned! I started my career the same year the team was created (1997), and I live just an hour from the service course. With the riders, I’m very committed to ensuring that the mental aspect is always there. A rider who feels good mentally and confident is a more performant rider. In any case, I’m very happy to be joining an ambitious team. I really appreciate Raphaël Jeune’s approach he’s coherent and down-to-earth. I’m looking forward to working with him and the other Sports Directors!”
Raphaël Jeune, General Manager:
“Sébastien’s arrival in the Cofidis team is very important. He has an impressive knowledge of all the races in Belgium. He will be invaluable in our rouleur–sprinter–puncheur setup that we plan to implement during Belgian races. He will be able to assist Sébastien Hinault in the best possible way. He is someone who is highly appreciated in the cycling world, with a pedagogy and philosophy that resonate with Cofidis’ DNA. I’m looking forward to working with Sébastien as soon as possible.”