“I don't want to compare myself to these aliens" - Romain Grégoire self focused amidst comparisons to Tadej Pogacar and Remco Evenepoel

Romain Grégoire is one of the hottest prospects in French cycling with some even drawing comparisons between the 20-year-old and two of the sports biggest stars, Tadej Pogacar and Remco Evenepoel although Gregoire himself is keen to stay focused.

Keeping his feet firmly on the ground, “I don't want to compare myself to these aliens," Gregoire reveals. "If everything goes so quickly for me too, fine. If it takes longer it will still be ok. Or maybe I'll never get there. I'll try."

The winner of Liège – Bastogne – Liège at under 23 level last year, the Groupama - FDJ rider has been earmarked by many in the know as one of the future stars of French cycling. For some, the pressure that entails would be too much, but Gregoire is determined not to let it affect him.

“I don't act as if the pressure didn't exist because I put it on myself enough," he says, whilst his coach Maxime Latourte agrees. “He has understood for a long time that this is the sad fate of all French riders who make it clear they have the potential to win the Tour de France. He has great maturity for his age.”