Race report: XCC-Start of the Coup de France in Marseille

Marseille, 13/03/2025

Today was the start of the Coup de France on the grounds of the University of Aix-Marseille. After 23 minutes of intense competition in cold and wet conditions, I finished the Shrot Track in 7th place, 7 seconds behind the winner Mattis Azzaro.

A solid start with my new Lapierre XR

It was with great pleasure that I pedalled off today on my Lapierre XR bike with a fresh team paint job. After a good start, I was able to establish myself in the leading group and position myself well. But I soon realised that the intensive preparations for the upcoming World Cup in Brazil in three weeks' time had left their mark. Anyways, the leading group of around 8 riders remained largely united and I was able to keep up with the basic pace.

Tactics and challenges

Despite the less than ideal physical situation, I stuck to my tactic of attacking with two laps to go. My attempt to break away was initially promising and I was able to open up a small gap for a short time. But on the final climb, the first three riders passed me, followed by three more rivals a few seconds later. I finally crossed the finish line at the end of the leading group.

XCC-XCO rhythm like in the World Cup

Looking back, I see today's short track race as a valuable part of the final training for Brazil, so I'm still very happy with seventh place. At the same time, it was a good leg opener to the cross-country race on Sunday, which - in typical French fashion - will present constant technical challenges. Apart from that, I had a joyful day today despite the adverse conditions and I'm looking forward to the atmosphere with many spectators here on Sunday.