Published on : 08/03/2026
At the age of 30, the 2023 French National Champion and Paris Olympic silver medallist has chosen to relaunch his career with Team Cofidis. A complete rider, relentless worker and exemplary teammate, he is determined to put his experience to good use as the team targets further victories. Valentin has signed a two-year contract with the team.
He is a rider well known to the French public and cycling enthusiasts alike. The Brest native is one of those athletes recognised for their talent, skill and ability to give their all. Valentin Madouas is a versatile rider who has excelled on a wide variety of terrains. In one-day races, he has already delivered some impressive performances, finishing 3rd in the Tour of Flanders (in 2022), 2nd in the Strade Bianche and winning the Bretagne Classic (in 2023).
Also in 2023, Valentin was crowned French champion in Cassel following a spectacular race. The Breton has also made his mark in the Grand Tours, having competed in seven of them, including six Tours de France. Notably, he finished 10th in the Tour de France in 2022. Valentin also came very close to a stage victory, finishing second that same year on the stage between Carcassonne and Foix.
Cofidis, “a choice made with the heart”
Having spent his entire career with Groupama FDJ United, he will now be riding for Cofidis. He is a major reinforcement for the team, bringing a wealth of experience and providing a new trump card in the quest for victories.
Valentin describes his decision as “a spur-of-the-moment choice” and says he is delighted with “the trust Cofidis has placed in me”. Wearing his new colours, he makes no secret of his ambitions: “to aim for good results and help set an exemplary example in the major races”. Valentin’s arrival will help maintain the momentum built up since the start of the season and ensure the team continues to project a confident and determined image over the next two seasons.
THEY SAID
Valentin Madouas:
“I was really touched by the positive discussions I had with Raphaël Jeune and the Cofidis team. This decision was a matter of the heart. I sensed a great deal of honesty and I really appreciated the team’s willingness to give me a fresh start and place their trust in me. My aim is simple: to achieve good results and help set an example in major races. I’m a hard worker and I like being part of a team where I feel comfortable enough to give 100 per cent. I still get just as much enjoyment out of cycling as ever and I want to push myself to the limit. My experience is an asset and I also hope to pass it on to the younger riders in the team so that they can continue to flourish and perform well themselves.”
Raphaël Jeune, general manager
: “We are delighted to welcome Valentin to the team for the next two seasons. He is a world-class rider who has consistently demonstrated the full extent of his talent. He has been crowned French champion, won an Olympic silver medal, and delivered a string of outstanding performances in some of cycling’s most prestigious races, including Strade Bianche, the Tour of Flanders, and the overall classification of the Tour de France.
Beyond being a great rider and a champion, Valentin is also a genuinely wonderful person. Since the beginning of his professional career, I have always kept a close eye on his results, his racing style, his qualities, and his character. I am convinced that he will fit seamlessly into the Cofidis team. We welcome him with open arms, and with great admiration, respect, and kindness. It is with great joy and tremendous enthusiasm that we begin this new chapter of his career together.”
