Lyon native Paul Seixas, just 19 years old, is rapidly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional cycling. The Decathlon CMA CGM rider’s recent victory at the Faun-Ardeche Classic, coupled with a string of impressive performances, has ignited excitement among fans and experts alike, drawing comparisons to cycling superstar Tadej Pogačar.
Seixas’s ascent has been remarkably swift. From dominating the junior ranks to making waves in the UCI WorldTour, the young Frenchman has consistently exceeded expectations. His win at the 2024 UCI Road World Championships junior time trial was an early indicator of his potential, but it’s his ability to compete – and win – against seasoned professionals that has truly captured attention. The buzz surrounding Paul Seixas isn’t simply hype; it’s a reflection of tangible talent and a relentless competitive spirit.
Dominating the Climb at Faun-Ardeche Classic
The Faun-Ardeche Classic victory on March 2, 2026, wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. Seixas distanced himself from a strong field, including Matteo Jorgenson, with a powerful attack, showcasing a climbing prowess that rivals even the best in the sport. Remarkably, he ascended the Col de Saint Romain de Lerps in 16:18, matching Pogačar’s climb-record time from the 2025 European Championships, according to Defector. This performance underscored his ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it matters most.
A Junior Career Marked by Success
Before turning professional, Seixas built a formidable reputation in the junior circuit. He spent three years with VC Villefranche Beaujolais (2021-2023) before moving to AG2R Citroën U19 Team (2023-2024) and then La Motte–Servolex Cyclisme U19. His 2023 season was particularly impressive, highlighted by overall victories at the Tour du Pays d’Olliergues and the Giro della Lunigiana, as well as a win at the Trofeo Guido Dorigo. He also secured a gold medal in the time trial at the 2024 UCI World Junior Championships and the National Junior Championships, demonstrating his versatility and dominance across different disciplines. Wikipedia details his extensive list of junior accolades.
Breaking Records and Defying Expectations
Seixas’s transition to the professional ranks has been nothing short of spectacular. He quickly made an impact, earning recognition for his performance at the GP Grand Prix La Marseillaise in February. Despite a setback with a crash during the UAE Tour, he rebounded strongly, finishing 1-2 with teammate Nicolas Prodhomme at the Tour of the Alps in April and taking the win for himself, defying team orders. His eighth-place finish at the 2025 Critérium du Dauphiné was particularly noteworthy, making him the youngest rider ever to finish in the top 10 of a UCI World Tour stage race at just 18 years old.
What’s Next for the Rising Star?
With a string of impressive results already under his belt, the future looks incredibly bright for Paul Seixas. He’s currently riding for Decathlon CMA CGM, and his continued development will be closely watched by fans and rivals alike. The young Frenchman has already proven he can compete with the best, and his potential appears limitless. His ability to recover from setbacks, combined with his exceptional climbing skills and competitive drive, suggests he’s poised for even greater success in the years to approach. The cycling world is eager to see what this curly-haired teen will accomplish next.
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