Former French champion Valentin Madouas leaves Groupama-FDJ for Cofidis after nine seasons

A major transfer was announced in France on Monday morning. Valentin Madouas will leave Groupama-FDJ after nine full seasons to begin a new chapter with Cofidis. The French team confirmed the arrival of the experienced all-rounder in a press release.

Madouas is now 30 years old and already has an impressive record to look back on. In 2023, he won the Bretagne Classic Ouest-France on home roads and became French national road race champion. A year later, he claimed an outstanding silver medal in the men’s road race at the Paris Olympic Games. He achieved those successes in Groupama-FDJ colours, but he will no longer represent the team from 2027 onwards.

Instead, Madouas will wear the Cofidis jersey for the next two seasons. “The 2023 French champion has decided to revitalise his career with Team Cofidis. A versatile rider, tireless worker and exemplary teammate, he intends to use his experience to help the team pursue new victories. Valentin has signed for the next two seasons,” his new employer said.

Madouas described the transfer as “a choice from the heart”. His objectives are equally clear: “To achieve good results and help the team show an exemplary attitude in the biggest races.” The Frenchman is delighted with the move. “I was deeply touched by the positive discussions I had with Raphaël Jeune and the Cofidis team. This decision came from the heart.”

“I felt there was a great deal of honesty, and I really appreciated the team’s desire to give me a fresh start and put its trust in me,” Madouas continued. “I am a hard worker, and I like being part of a group where I feel comfortable and can express myself at 100 per cent. I still enjoy riding my bike as much as ever, and I want to get the very best out of myself.”

Cofidis general manager Jeune added: “He is a world-class rider who has shown the full extent of his talent. Beyond being a great rider and a champion, he is also a very likeable person. Since he turned professional, I have always kept a close eye on his results, the way he races, his qualities and his character. I am convinced that he will fit perfectly into the Cofidis team.”