OFFICIAL: INEOS Grenadiers snap up one of French cycling's brightest stars on three-year deal

In a significant move within the World Tour transfer market, INEOS Grenadiers have confirmed the signing of rising French talent Kevin Vauquelin on a three-year deal starting in 2026. The 24-year-old will make the switch from Arkéa - B&B Hotels as he takes the next step in what has already become one of the most closely-watched trajectories in the peloton.

The signing marks a clear statement of intent from INEOS, who continue to evolve their Grand Tour ambitions with a new generation of leaders. Vauquelin’s arrival adds further depth to the British team’s GC arsenal and sets up an intriguing internal dynamic alongside the likes of Carlos Rodríguez, Thymen Arensman, and Egan Bernal.

At just 24, Vauquelin has already delivered on significant potential, claiming a breakthrough stage win at the 2024 Tour de France in Bologna and finishing an impressive seventh in the general classification in 2025. His consistency across terrain and racing styles has been evident since turning professional in 2022, with GC victories at the Étoile de Bessèges and the Tour des Alpes Maritimes et du Var, a runner-up spot at the 2024 Tour de Suisse, and consecutive podium finishes at La Flèche Wallonne.

“I’m extremely proud to join a team like INEOS Grenadiers which has shaped the history of cycling for over a decade – both in Grand Tours and across the calendar. I’m still in shock,” said Vauquelin, reflecting on the move in a team press release.

Having spent his entire professional career thus far with Arkéa - B&B Hotels, Vauquelin was quick to acknowledge the importance of the team in his development. “Arkéa – B&B Hotels will always be important to me. It’s the team where I turned pro, where they trusted me and gave me responsibility. I was able to thrive and learn my job in a calm environment.”

Vauquelin described the transfer as a natural evolution in his career: “I’m really excited to discover a new environment, new teammates, new equipment and a new way of working with the staff group. For me, it’s the logical next step in my career to continue my progression and explore new horizons.”

Few riders have made as big an impression at the Tour in recent seasons as Vauquelin. A solo victory on Stage 2 in 2024, was followed by a display of maturity and composure en route to a top-10 GC finish in 2025.

“I have participated in two Tour de France editions, and each time it was an emotional rollercoaster. In 2024, I went from a tough moment on the first stage to immense joy on the second day when I won in Bologna… I discovered myself at every stage, lived crazy moments, especially when the Tour passed through my home region of Normandy. Even now, I think I’ve experienced something completely wild, and I’m proud of myself,” he reflects. “For the future, I know I still have a lot to discover, but I’ll work even harder to get closer to the best.”

The support of the French public has clearly been a driving force for the Normandy native. “I never could have imagined it. On some stages, my ears were ringing from hearing my name so much. I even saw my face on a hot air balloon! At the Tour, everything is amplified and I tried to live it to the fullest while staying true to myself. It makes me proud and motivates me a lot. Thanks to everyone for this support, from the bottom of my heart.”

Sir Dave Brailsford, Director of INEOS Grenadiers, believes the signing reflects the team’s long-term vision.

“I’ve been excited to watch Kevin’s progress over the past couple of seasons. Not only is he a punchy rider who knows how to win, at this year’s Tour I was impressed to see him add a new dimension to his racing. He races with intelligence and ambition – qualities that fit perfectly with the Grenadiers,” says the team boss. “We believe his best years are ahead of him and we’re excited to help him realise his potential.”