The French cycling team St Michel-Preference Home-Auber 93 is making a bold move that could shape the future of women's cycling in France. By shutting down its men's squad, the team is doubling down on its commitment to women's cycling, a decision that reflects a broader shift in the sport.
This move is particularly significant given the team's rich history in men's cycling. Having competed in the Tour de France in the late 90s and early 2000s, the team has produced notable riders like Tony Gallopin and Steve Chainel. However, the team's focus is now squarely on women's cycling, a decision that is both strategic and symbolic.
The decision to focus solely on women's cycling is driven by the increasing opportunities and resources available in the women's sport. With the growth of the women's Tour de France, there are more platforms for women's teams to showcase their talent and attract sponsors. However, this also means that teams must invest more to stay competitive, which is a challenge that St Michel is addressing head-on.
The team's commitment to women's cycling is further evidenced by its recent high-profile signings, including Canadian champion and former Paris-Roubaix winner Alison Jackson, who is set to lead the team in 2026. The arrival of Jackson has also brought in a new sponsor, Premier Tech, further strengthening the team's resources.
Stephan Gaudry, the club CEO, expressed his deep attachment to the team's history, noting that the decision to focus on women's cycling is a significant one. "We are closing a chapter spanning several decades, during which we competed in the world’s greatest races, won a stage of the Tour de France, and had the honor of wearing the French national champion’s jersey," he said.
Despite the shift in focus, the club remains committed to club-level development, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent from the grassroots up. "Our journey is not over — it continues as it always has: with courage, humility, and ambition," Gaudry added.
This move by St Michel-Preference Home-Auber 93 is a testament to the growing importance of women's cycling and the need for teams to adapt to the changing landscape of the sport. It also highlights the potential for men's teams to make a significant impact in women's cycling, both on the track and in the broader community.
