“I’ve been watching it since I was twelve” – Paul Seixas ready to face Tadej Pogacar at Strade Bianche

The 2026 season is confirming what many had already suspected: Paul Seixas is no longer just a promising talent. At only 19 years old, the French rider has emerged as one of the biggest revelations of the year and now faces one of the toughest challenges in cycling: taking on Tadej Pogacar at Strade Bianche.

The Decathlon CMA CGM rider made a major statement at the Volta ao Algarve, where he won a stage ahead of Juan Ayuso and Joao Almeida, before finishing second overall behind the Spaniard.

He then confirmed his strong form at the Faun Ardeche Classic, where he appeared clearly stronger than his rivals and rode to victory.

His next test comes at Strade Bianche, a race famous for its toughness, its gravel sectors and its explosive character. It is a course that appears well-suited to Seixas’ abilities.

Seixas made his feelings clear ahead of the race. “Taking part in Strade Bianche is something I’m really looking forward to. It’s one of my favourite races. I’ve been watching it on television since I was twelve or thirteen years old, and I can’t wait to experience it for myself."

“When I was in the U19 category, I competed twice in the Eroica Nations Cup, which is reserved for young riders and includes several gravel sectors. I really enjoyed it because it was a bit like cyclocross. I think it’s a race that could suit my profile, but the startlist is impressive. The goal, with the help of my teammates, is to see where I stand compared to them.”

The French rider is clearly excited, but also realistic. He knows he will be lining up against some of the biggest names in the peloton, starting with Pogacar, who has become the benchmark rider on this type of terrain.

Seixas has already captured the imagination of French fans. The question now is whether, unlike many compatriots before him, he can cope with the intense media attention in a country that has waited four decades for a new Tour de France winner.

For now, the approach remains step by step. But there is little doubt that Seixas is a rider with enormous potential and all the tools needed to succeed at the highest level of the sport.