“We’ll try to control the race” - Paul Seixas wants to dictate Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes from the beginning

Paul Seixas approaches the start of the Tour Auvergne Rhône-Alpes 2026 with optimism after a build-up that, he said, unfolded smoothly and left the team with good sensations.

On the eve of the race, the rider answered Cycling Pro Net’s questions about his form, preparation, and the team’s expectations ahead of stage 1.

“Paul, tell us how you are, how you’re approaching this Tour in Verneuil-Rhône-Alpes. There’s been a lot of expectation, especially after the spring. How have you managed this preparation period?”

Seixas said the groundwork has been positive and that he arrives in good condition alongside the rest of the team.

“Yes, for sure the preparation has gone well. I’m in form, we have a strong team and we’re really ready. Only Mathieu is a bit sick this morning. I think it’s food poisoning, we don’t know for sure yet. In any case, it’s not contagious, so we hope he can get through the stage without issues. Otherwise, the team is in very good shape.”

Asked about the race’s importance in his calendar, the rider recalled his participation last year and the demands of the route. “Yes, of course. I already did this race last year. It was extremely hard. This year I’m happy to line up again. It’s a beautiful race in my region and I’m glad to take part.”

As for the team’s strategy on the opening day, Seixas predicted a complicated stage likely shaped by peloton control.

“We’re starting with a very difficult stage. Today will be really tough, so we’ll try to control the race a bit and get through the day without problems, which is the most important thing.”

On the prospect of taking risks or even chasing the lead from day one, he was cautious and left the door open to how the race unfolds. “I don’t know if it’s a good idea to take the jersey straight away, but we’ll see how everything plays out and how the race scenario evolves.”

Finally, he stressed the need to manage efforts across a demanding week, especially with a team time trial on stage 3.

“Above all, having a team time trial on stage 3 is quite unusual. We have to keep the team in the best possible shape. That would spare us from doing too much work tomorrow, which will be a very long day, and the team time trial will be really decisive.”