Published on : 06/16/2026
At the age of 30, the Tarn native will once again compete in the Tour de France. “Bento” is no stranger to the unique atmosphere of the Tour de France, having competed in it in 2022 and 2025. This year, he plans to take on the role of road captain to assist Milan Fretin in the sprints, as well as supporting Ion Izagirre and Alex Aranburu during the steeper stages. A few words ahead of the Grand Départ.
The announcement of his selection.
“It’s obviously a great pleasure to know that you’re going to be competing in the Tour de France. That’s been my guiding principle all season; I’ve tried to ramp up the intensity as the season went on to be in the best possible shape. I knew I had to earn my place and I had the chance to prove it during the Coupe de France races and the Tour Auvergne Rhône-Alpes (a 231 km breakaway on the second stage).’
His role in the Tour de France.
My primary mission is to help my teammates. In every stage finishing with a sprint, I’ll be part of Milan’s (Fretin) lead-out train to help him get into a good position. Then, in the hilly stages, I’ll be alongside Ion (Izagirre) and Alex (Aranburu). I know we’ll have some strong cards to play right from the start of the Tour de France. My aim is to make this team effort a success so we can achieve good results.”
The atmosphere within the team.
“I feel very much at home here and I know it’s a feeling shared by my teammates. On a personal level, I’m thriving in this role as road captain. I’m really keen for us to have a successful Tour de France as a team.”
A milestone in his career.
“This will be my third time competing, following 2022 and 2025. I’ve been lucky enough to experience some truly memorable moments, particularly at the Olympic Games, and the Tour de France is one of those truly special events. That said, I know the years fly by, so it’s important to give it my all so I have no regrets. I always prefer to focus on the present rather than the past. And the only goal is to be 100% ready right from the Grand Départ!”
The Cofidis riders who will compete in the 2026 Tour de France:
Alex Aranburu, Milan Fretin, Ion Izagirre, Alex Kirch, Hugo Page, Benjamin Thomas
(the final two riders will be announced following the national championships)