Cofidis plays the experience card at the 2026 Tour de France and states its ambitions clearly

It’s a busy Monday morning for those keeping an eye on Tour de France team announcements. Cofidis is the latest, but by no means the last, to announce their squad. The French team is heading to the start in Barcelona with a very experienced group of eight riders, with its goals are laid out in detail in the run-up to Le Grand Départ.

"The Cofidis team is approaching this new edition of the Tour de France, which starts this coming Saturday, with ambition and determination," the press release states in a combative tone. "Building on the momentum they’ve built since the start of the year, they’ll do everything they can to treat every stage like a classic."

That seems to be the strategy for achieving the main goal, namely: “A stage victory. Whether it’s a sprint finish, hilly stages, or the high mountains, the team has many strengths.” Looking at the roster, one can indeed see a mix of qualities. What stands out most of all is their experience.

Ranked by age, Ion Izagirre, at 37, is the oldest rider. But the French team is counting on even more riders over 30: Piet Allegaert (31), Alex Aranburu (30), Jenthe Biermans (30), Alex Kirsch (34), and Benjamin Thomas (30) have all been selected. Together, they have a combined total of 27 Tour appearances.

Also selected: “young guns” Milan Fretin (25) and Hugo Page (24). The former, in particular, will have a chance to shine in the sprints, as general manager Raphael Jeune explains. “The whole team will be behind him so he can shine,” he says, expressing great confidence in the Belgian sprinter.

What does the outlook look like for the rest of the team? “We’ve built this team together with the performance unit and all the sports directors. Our goal is clear: to win one or more stages. Alex Aranburu and Ion Izagirre, who have been in top form all season, will have plenty of opportunities to make their mark.'

"Within the team, the message is clear: every stage is a classic, and every stage must be seen as an opportunity to win!" said Jeune.