"The team is of course disappointed" - Climbing sensation Cédrine Kerbaol uses a loophole to break out of her contract with CERATIZIT

Cédrine Kerbaol was one of the big revelations already during the 2023 season, but it was in her second year with CERATIZIT-WNT Pro Cycling when the 23-year-old truly broke through, winning a stage at the Tour de France Femmes.

The Germany-based WorldTour formation was counting on the talented climber towards the future but frankly, the feelings weren't mutual. Kerbaol took advantage of a loophole provided by UCI for riders of teams who fail to submit their WorldTour applications in time, allowing the legally break out of their contracts. Ceraitizit subsequently provided all documentation, but Kerbaol is already off to a new adventure.

Full Statement by the team below:

CERATIZIT-WNT and Cédrine Kerbaol have mutually agreed to part ways following the release of the UCI's list of Women's WorldTour (WWT) License applicants for 2025. The team's absence from the list following an administrative delay sees a contractual clause activated allowing riders to terminate their contracts early, effective immediately.

The team is of course disappointed in the circumstances that have led to this decision, but remains proud of Cédrine's achievements during her time with CERATIZIT-WNT. Cédrine has claimed an impressive eight victories over the past two years in CERATIZIT- WNT colours. Her success includes winning the prestigious White Jersey at the 2023 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, taking the 2023 French National ITT title and confirming her outstanding talent with a stage victory at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in 2024. These accomplishments are a testament not only to her hard work and dedication but also that of the team, its staff and its sponsors.

CERATIZIT-WNT team manager, Claude Sun: "Naturally, we're disappointed to see Cédrine depart in this way but we respect her decision and wish her all the best for the road ahead. As a team, we can look proudly back on our most successful season in our history, one that spans 10 years now since our beginnings back in the UK. We look ahead with excitement to our 11th season in 2025 and our second in the World Tour, welcoming several talented young riders as part of a new-look team. Together with our long-standing sponsors and partners, we continue to provide riders with the opportunities to develop and progress in their careers, as we have with so many riders in the past."