Former Tour de France regular Walter Bénéteau has been found dead in a hotel room in Bali, Indonesia aged just 50. At this time the circumstances around the former cycling pro's death are still unclear.
Bénéteau rode seven consecutive Tour de France's between 2000 and 2006 under the banner of Jean-René Bernaudeau's team that has since developed into Team TotalEnergies. Despite not managing to achieve his dream of winning a stage, Bénéteau was regularly seen in breakaways and towards the front of the race.
Finishing 2nd at the 2001 French National Championships, Bénéteau achieved two career victories, both at the Boucles de l'Aulne - GP Le Télégramme in 2000 and 2003. After retiring in 2006, Bénéteau moved to a behind-the-scenes role, working for both TotalEnergies and B&B Hotels, working in a PR capacity.
C'est avec une profonde tristesse que nous venons d'apprendre le décès de Walter Bénéteau. Il était un coureur au grand cœur qui faisait partie de la famille du Team. Il restera à jamais dans nos mémoires. L’équipe présente ses sincères condoléances à sa famille et ses proches.
