“This decision was a matter of the heart”: Olympic medalist Valentin Madouas signs two-year deal with Cofidis after nearly a decade at Groupama-FDJ
Cycling
Valentin Madouas will begin a new chapter in his career after signing a two-year contract with Cofidis. The Frenchman ends a nine-year spell with Groupama-FDJ United, saying the trust shown by his new team convinced him to make an emotional decision as he looks to revive his career.
A fresh start after nine seasons
After spending his entire professional career with Groupama - FDJ United, Madouas will ride for Cofidis from 1 January 2027 through the end of the 2028 season.
The 30-year-old leaves behind an impressive résumé that includes the French national road title and Bretagne Classic victory in 2023, as well as the Olympic silver medal in the road race at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. He also proved his Grand Tour pedigree by finishing tenth overall at the 2022 Tour de France.
However, these are results that he has not been able to replicate in the last two years. Thus, he hopes the move will help him rediscover his best form.
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Madouas revealed that conversations with Cofidis management played a decisive role in his decision to leave the only professional team he has ever known. Introducing his move, he explained that the transfer was driven by more than sporting considerations.
“I was really touched by the positive discussions I had with Raphaël Jeune and the Cofidis team. This decision was a matter of the heart,” he said in an official statement shared by Cofidis.
He also praised the confidence the team has shown in him. “I sensed a great deal of honesty and I really appreciated the team's willingness to give me a fresh start and place their trust in me.”
Madouas was second at the 2024 Olympic Games road race
Looking for results and leadership
Madouas made it clear that he still has ambitious sporting goals while also hoping to become a leader within the French squad. “My aim is simple: to achieve good results and help set an example in major races.”
The experienced classics specialist believes his work ethic and experience can benefit both himself and the team's younger riders. “I'm a hard worker and I like being part of a team where I feel comfortable enough to give 100 per cent. I still get just as much enjoyment out of cycling as ever and I want to push myself to the limit.”
“My experience is an asset and I also hope to pass it on to the younger riders in the team so that they can continue to flourish and perform well themselves.”
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General manager Raphaël Jeune described Madouas as one of the team's biggest additions in recent years, highlighting both his achievements and his character.
“We are delighted to welcome Valentin to the team for the next two seasons. He is a world-class rider who has consistently demonstrated the full extent of his talent.”
The Cofidis boss believes the Frenchman will fit perfectly into the team's environment. “Beyond being a great rider and a champion, Valentin is also a genuinely wonderful person.”
“I am convinced that he will fit seamlessly into the Cofidis team. We welcome him with open arms, and with great admiration, respect and kindness. It is with great joy and tremendous enthusiasm that we begin this new chapter of his career together.”
Félix SernaCycling Journalist
Félix Serna is a writer at CyclingUpToDate and has been part of the team since 2025. He covers professional cycling across both the men’s and women’s calendars, with a focus on UCI rankings, race developments, and rider performance. His work includes interview-based reports, liveblogs, and tournament coverage designed to provide clear, accurate context throughout the season.
In his reporting, Félix regularly uses ProCyclingStats for results, statistics, and historical reference. He places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. He holds a bachelor’s degree in International Studies.
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- guess what Valgren, you're 34, and no you're not good enough. sorry to say.mij14-11-2026
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- enough time? he's 24 years old. He's won 10 races over the last 2 years and some are significant. I won't argue about his attitude being good - it needs to improve. But with some coaching and mentorship he has a lot of winning ahead of him and has plenty of time to win a GT. I don't think he will ever beat Tadej, but everyone else is fair game Look at Mas and Valverde - they were 31 and 29, respectively, when they won the Vuelta.mij14-11-2026
- Pogacar has a fine head on his shoulders.Careful investments and a couple of coffee shops sounds like a wonderful way to chill after an intense career.Stay healthy GOAT.
Brucegel14-11-2026 - I live in Maribor.PogiSloFans14-11-2026
- I live in Ljubljana and often go on trips in the surrounding area, where I frequently see young cyclists in 'Pogi Team' jerseys training, either alone or in groups. By simply motivating so many young people to take up cycling, Tadej has already achieved something truly significant.Velijo14-11-2026
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santiagobenites14-11-2026 - Indeed! A reluctant gift maybe. Even more reluctant gift from Roglic! Tho I can’t see that Rog would have beaten Ving anyway.Lozza14-11-2026
- That really nasty crash in 2022 Liege must have played a big part - broken ribs, pneumothorax. You only have to look at his points tallies pre and post.Lozza14-11-2026
- Yeah, good luck getting tv and race organisers like ASO etc to part with their cash!Lozza14-11-2026
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