Not since the legendary Bernard Hinault back in 1985 has a Frenchman stood on the final podium of the Tour de France adorned in the Maillot Jaune. In Lenny Martinez though, do the French cycling fans have a rider to hold their hopes? According to the man himself, yes.
So far, the 21-year-old has seen his development grow at Groupama - FDJ. For 2025 and the immediate years beyond though, the diminutive climber is set for a new challenge at Bahrain - Victorious. "I'm going to do a lot of preparation this winter, on and off the bike, to achieve my goals," he says in conversation with Le Monde, not making any attempt to hide his ambition. "I want to win the Tour de France."
Already with 6 victories on his palmares, Martinez has worn the Red Jersey at the Vuelta a Espana for a couple of days back in 2023 and completed his first Tour de France earlier this year, although admittedly he failed to make much of an impact. Hopes in France are big for the 21-year-old and Martinez is keen to live up to the expectations.
"To beat Tadej Pogacar, you have to put all the chances on your side," he adds, explaining his decision to move teams from his comfort at Groupama - FDJ to a new challenge at Bahrain - Victorious. "There are a lot of expectations around me. Many teams, both foreign and French, came to approach me, which is quite rare in the world of cycling."
Still young and a somewhat raw talent though, Martinez is fully aware improvement is needed to compete for Grand Tour success. "It (2024 season ed.) was cut in two, with good and bad. Everything was going badly. My legs were no longer turning in training," he recalls. "I wanted to take part in my first Tour de France with a French team. I have gained experience for the future."
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