It's no overstatement that
Marion Bunel made a huge name for herself this year, racing for French conti team St Michel-Mavic-Auber 93. The 20-year-old was one of the biggest revelations of this season and deservedly moves up to WorldTour with three-year contract at Visma | Lease a Bike where she'll cross paths with far more experienced compatriot Pauline Ferrand-Prevot.
Bunel started strongly this year with 5th place at UAE Tour, and followed up with dominant victory at Alpes Gresivaudan Classic. In summer, she first made herself be heard after 11th place on Alpe d'Huez during Tour de France Femmes, which she backed up with overall victory at the Tour de l'Avenir and a runner-up result at Tour Feminin l'Ardeche.
"It's a dream come true," Bunel said. "Team Visma | Lease a Bike is one of the best teams in the world and I'm honoured to join them next season. I believe this is the perfect next step for my career. I couldn't ask for better facilities or teammates. I've always been trained by my father, so I'm looking forward to a different approach to training."
Bunel is looking forward to working with Vos and Ferrand-Prévot. The latter recently announced her return to road cycling. "I have been following Pauline for a long time. She's a great role model for me and many others. I'm thrilled to be on the same team as her for the next few years. I'll try to learn as much as possible."
Team manager Rutger Tijssen is delighted with the new signing. "Marion is a great talent, especially in the mountains. We approached her last year after the Tour de l'Avenir, impressed by her riding style. We're very happy that she chose us and I think she is happy to take her next step with our team."
Tijssen emphasises that Bunel's development will be carefully managed. "We're not going to hold her back, but we're not going to throw her in at the deep end either. These things take time." Bunel hopes to continue to improve over the next few years. "My first Tour de France has really motivated me for the future. Of course it would be great to win a stage or even the Tour one day, but for now I want to learn and gain as much experience as possible."
