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Tour de France: Paul Seixas discusses his form, goals, and expectations before his debut

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • French cyclist Paul Seixas is preparing for his first Tour de France start in Barcelona.
  • He has recovered from a recent crash and feels in good form after altitude training.
  • Seixas acknowledges the unique pressure of the Tour but aims to gain experience before targeting wins.

As the Tour de France prepares to launch from Barcelona, French cycling prodigy Paul Seixas is setting his sights on his debut in the prestigious race. Speaking ahead of the Grand Dรฉpart, Seixas addressed his current form and ambitions, acknowledging the unique atmosphere surrounding his first participation in cycling's most iconic event.

It is the Tour de France, a new experience. One must first experience a Tour de France before wanting to win it.

โ€” Paul SeixasSeixas discusses his approach to his first Tour de France, emphasizing gaining experience over immediate victory.

Seixas confirmed he is in good physical condition despite a recent crash during the Tour Auvergne-Rhรดne-Alpes. He reported that his hand injuries have improved significantly, allowing him to resume training. Following a period of altitude training with his team in Les Arcs and Lautaret, Seixas expressed confidence in his readiness for the demanding race.

I think we have a very good team. We made the first real adjustments today on the Barcelona circuit and it went very well.

โ€” Paul SeixasSeixas comments on his team's preparation for the opening team time trial.

Reflecting on the immense attention and pressure, Seixas likened the pre-race anticipation to any other competition, albeit with an added "extra" dimension due to the Tour de France's global stature. He described the experience of participating in the leaders' press conference as "particular" and a clear indicator of the Tour's elevated status. While eager to perform, Seixas emphasized his primary goal is to gain experience in his first Tour de France, stating, "It is the Tour de France, a new experience. One must first experience a Tour de France before wanting to win it."

It's sure that it's particular. I knew that the Tour de France would be another dimension and this press conference is proof of that.

โ€” Paul SeixasSeixas describes his feelings about participating in the official pre-race press conference.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.