"Arnaud had expectations that we couldn't meet" - Marc Madiot explains the choice to let go of his star sprinter

The Groupama-FDJ team had an eventful 2023 season. On one hand, there were 19 victories, including French championships. Also Thibaut Pinot shone in the Maglia Azurra in Italy in his final season. On the other hand, Arnaud Démare left the team on unfriendly terms and so Marc Madiot's team has to build from scratch again, as he explains to Cyclism'Actu.

"Yes, time passes, the years go by, one after the other. Riders leave, others arrive, such is the life of a sports team. I have been there for a good number of years, so gradually and successively the workforce evolves and changes. I still remember the days of Sandy Casar, Jacky Durand, Bradley McGee and others."

"Arnaud had expectations that we couldn't meet, but that's the economic life of a team, you have to deal with it. I am sad and disappointed that the relationship was damaged a little with this delicate moment with him. But I recognize his talent, I know everything he brought to the team and I hope that we will find a peaceful relationship as the time passes," Madiot continues, noting that he'd like to have a chat with Démare in the future. "I haven't had any contact with him, but I know I will at some point. I hope we will have the opportunity to chat quietly."

"He was an emblematic, important rider, a keystone in the team. He brought us a lot, the team grew with him and Arnaud. So thank you and good luck for the future, a new life begins for him. I think what happened in the final moments reflects what Pinot was like throughout his career. We had to wait until his last year for us to understand who Thibaut Pinot was and the legacy he left within the peloton and within cycling life in France. He got the exit he deserved."