TdF stage 5: Vauquelin the French hope - moving on

 

It's a shame that Arkea B&B Hotels has been struggling and without a life line, may likely come to an end in December. However, there is a small chance that the French team will save itself and it's big star Kevin Vauquelin will depart for INEOS Grenadiers as the likely destination for the Frenchman. 

The talented rider has emerged as a puncheur but over the years has developed as a climber and time-trialist as well. The twenty-four-year old is a two-time runner-up at Flèche Wallonne (2024-25), and has won the Etoile de Besseges and Region Pays de la Loire Tour this year. At the Tour de Suisse he rode to second place on GC. His ongoing exploits at this Tour is close to perfection and is currently joining Pogacar and Evenepoel in the virtual podium. 

With no contract for the upcoming season and according to Gazzetta dello Sport's Ciro Scognamiglio, his move to INEOS is almost a done deal. Now, Vauquelin is ahead of Vinegegaard in the GC, strongly holding his own, and riding a very strong time-trial. Last year Vauquelin made his Tour debut and won stage 2 into Bologna... with more success to follow.

"My legs were hurting a bit, but my lungs still had some reserve, it was incredible! All the support, I'm over the moon, thank you all! It's one of my best times, I'm soaking it in, I'm speechless. Tonight, I'm going to ache all over."

-Kevin Vauquelin. Fifth of stage 5 and third place on GC.