Vuelta a Espana presence "a strong gesture, a good sign of confidence" for Romain Grégoire

Alongside Lenny Martínez, Groupama-FDJ are testing out their new generation of leaders at the Vuelta a Espana where Romain Grégoire will make his debut in a three-week race. The 20-year old carries great form, potential and is within a shot of racing for a meaningful win.

"When they told me in December that they would go to the Vuelta with a young team, I was surprised. However, the idea has found its way and I think it is a strong gesture, a good sign of confidence," Grégoire told In de Leiderstrui. “Now we are on the eve of the Vuelta, which I am very excited to participate in. The opposition is of a high level and I am sure we will have to do well ourselves. However, it doesn't matter to me whether there are two or ten big riders at the start, that doesn't change my Vuelta."

At 20 years of age the duo will race their first Grand Tour - as will Lewis Askey, Samuel Watson and Lorenzo Germani. It is the turn of a page, as Thibaut Pinot is set to retire and Arnaud Démare leaves the team. Grégoire has already proven himself as a tremendous rider in his neo-pro season, finishing eighth at Strade Bianche, winning the 4 Jours du Dunkerque and just last week two stages and the overall classification at the Tour du Limousin. Not only a classics specialist, he's already put on impressive climbing performance for his age.

"It will be my first Grand Tour and that will be difficult at times, but we have already seen this year that I can defend myself at WorldTour level," he continues, the goal will be to test himself in a new challenge and see where he stands. "I want to finish the race anyway, but also more than that. Of course I want to show myself. That is why I have already studied the course well and know that on the days I tick I will have to give it my all."