The 2024 French Cycling Championships are set to captivate fans as the best French riders gather in Normandy for the men's road race. This highly anticipated event will see competitors tackle a 240km route between Avranches and Saint-Martin-de-Landelles, featuring a challenging final circuit to be covered 13 times.
The race promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with a total elevation gain of 3,250m, including several notable climbs such as the Côte de la Vallée (800m at 8%), the Côte du Pigeonnier (500m at 6%), and the Côte des Biards (700m at 5%). These repeated ascents are expected to test the endurance and strategy of the riders, making it an event designed for punchers.
Among the favorites is the title holder Valentin Madouas, who will be defending his championship against formidable competitors like Julian Alaphilippe, the double world champion aiming to add a national title to his impressive record. Another strong contender is Benoit Cosnefroy, a local favorite and winner of the Polynormande in 2019, who has shown excellent form this season.
The race also features other notable riders such as Axel Laurance and Axel Zingle, who represent the future hopes of French cycling. Additionally, European champion Christophe Laporte will be looking to make a mark before the Tour de France, and sprinter Bryan Coquard, fresh off a victory at the Tour de Suisse, could surprise everyone with his renewed confidence and form.
- After previous championships in Vendée and Hauts-de-France, this year's event in Normandy adds a historic and picturesque backdrop to the competition. The race starts from Place Littré in Avranches and includes a scenic yet demanding route that highlights the region's natural beauty and challenging terrain.
- The race's structure, with its repeated circuits and multiple climbs, is reminiscent of the Italian courses that have previously crowned champions like Julian Alaphilippe. This similarity is expected to play a crucial role in the strategies employed by the riders, particularly those who excel in punchy, hilly terrains.
- Bryan Coquard, affectionately known as 'The Rooster', is a veteran sprinter who recently regained his form. His victory at the Tour de Suisse has boosted his confidence, and he could be a dark horse in this race, aiming to finally don the tricolor jersey after several near-misses in previous years.
