Sam Bennett was in the past one of the great winners of the Tour de France. In 2020 he was the leading sprinter of the race and won the points classification. Ever since he has not returned to the Grand Boucle, although every single year he had the intentions to do so.
A knee injury in 2021 then led to a spat with Patrick Lefevere, and the manager of Soudal - Quick-Step at the time worked to prevent him from being in the race. Bennett left for BORA - hansgrohe and looked to make a return to the Tour, but both in 2022 and 2023 he was taken out of the lineup last minute due to less than ideal form. At the end of last season it was clear that he would leave; and the Irishman found a new home at Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale.
"I'm delighted to return to the Tour de France after a four-year absence. I'd like to thank the team for this incredible opportunity," Bennett said in a press release issued by the team. Bennett certainly did not impress early in the year, but in May turned this around by winning four stages and the overall classification at 4 Jours du Dunkerque - also winning the cobbled and hilly queen stage. A great performance which gave him hopes of returning to a strong level at the Tour which now looked certain.
"Coming back to the Grand Boucle with a French team is a special feeling. To win a stage for this team in the world's greatest race would be even more special," he dreams of. Bennett was second in the first stage of the Criterium du Dauphiné, and finished the mountainous race looking to improve on his form ahead of the race. He will be supported by Dorian Godon and Oliver Naesen in the sprints.
"I've got plenty of time to get into the race, as the start is hilly. Nevertheless, every stage is important, the first opportunity will come after the opening weekend, and I hope to be ready for that. There should be eight massive sprints with lots of contenders. I'm looking forward to the fight."
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