Engaged

"Kévin Vauquelin, Tour de France's latest star, expresses his elation"

Arke\_a-B&B Hotels cyclist thrives on the adoration of local spectators during the fourth stage of the GC race

, and ASMedia

2025 September 4 . 7:40 PM

2 min read

Tour de France's latest sensation, Kévin Vauquelin, expresses his elation

"Kévin Vauquelin, Tour de France's latest star, expresses his elation"

In the heart of Bayeux, France, the Tour de France is buzzing with excitement. The spotlight is on a local hero, Kévin Vauquelin, a French rider who is making waves in the cycling world.

Arkéa-B&B Hotels' team paddock, located in a car park in front of the Joan of Arc school, is a hive of activity. Reporters flock to the bus, with a lively atmosphere that mirrors the anticipation of the race. A banner reading, "Allez Kévin," meaning "Go Kevin," is proudly displayed, complete with a French tricolour and a stock picture of a cyclist.

Vauquelin, a former pupil of the school, is a beloved figure in Bayeux. His home is near stage six's departure, and the locals cheer him on, shouting his name over and over. A green banner with an old yearbook photo of a cropped-haired teenager named Kévin Vauquelin is also displayed at the school, a testament to his humble beginnings.

Vauquelin's career has seen rapid growth. In 2021, he finished in the top 10 overall in the Tour de France, wearing key jerseys such as the white jersey (best under-26 rider) and the polka dot jersey (best climber) during parts of the race. His performance was part of a broader resurgence of French talent, raising hopes for future French success in the race after decades without a home winner since Bernard Hinault in 1985.

Last year, Vauquelin secured his first Tour de France stage win, demonstrating his development into a consistent contender in mountainous terrain and week-long stage races. In this year's Tour, he finished fifth in stage five's time trial and is currently third in the general classification, behind Remco Evenepoel and Tadej Pogačar.

However, Vauquelin is not targeting the yellow jersey this year. His goal is to win another Tour stage. His parents, Valérie and Bruno, are present at the team paddock, speaking to reporters about their son's achievements.

Despite having one of the smallest budgets on the WorldTour, Arkea, Vauquelin's team, is threatened with closure. Yet, the French fans have built impassioned ties with their own riders, cheering them on with fervour. This is evident in the support for Vauquelin, who is not only a talented cyclist but also a hometown hero.

[1] Tour de France Official Website [2] Cycling News (2021)