Rémi Daumas stands out on the Montagne de Lure

# Rémi Daumas Shines in Snowy Conditions at Montagne de Lure

The queen stage of the Tour de la Provence unfolded against a stunning, snowy backdrop at Montagne de Lure, significantly impacting the general classification. This Saturday’s race highlighted the talents of Rémi Daumas from Groupama-FDJ United, who impressively secured a seventh-place finish after facing a challenging final climb that stretched over fourteen kilometers.

For the first time in the 2026 season, riders confronted this climactic ascent, which featured an incline of 6.5%. The stage was marked by an early breakaway led by young cyclist Esteban Foucher from “La Conti,” who caught the attention of both fans and teammates. “Esteban and Lorenzo were designated to go in the breakaway. It went from the gun, and Esteban found himself up the road,” noted team director Frédéric Guesdon. “The goal for him today was either to test himself on the final climb and see how far he could go, or to make the breakaway. He made the break — it was worth it and a good experience for him.”

As Foucher rode ahead with five other competitors, the peloton remained vigilant. Frédéric highlighted the dynamics of the race: “About fifty kilometers from the finish, there was a strong tailwind on a slight downhill. It stretched the peloton and split things up a bit. We weren’t too worried because we knew there was a headwind before the final climb, and above all, the guys were really in the mix, in the front group.”

With about thirty kilometers to go, the peloton reunited, closing the gap to Foucher’s breakaway, which had diminished to just twenty seconds at the foot of Montagne de Lure. “The plan was to make the best possible climb with Guillaume for the overall classification,” Frédéric explained. Rémi Daumas was tasked with supporting his leader, and he successfully remained in contention as the race intensified.

As the final brisk climbs commenced, Rémi distinguished himself, ultimately finishing seventh. “He had done some great tests during the training camp before the race,” Frédéric shared. “So it’s only half a surprise because he had shown promising signs, but above all it’s very encouraging for the future.” Guillaume Martin-Guyonnet finished in 13th place, 1:11 behind stage winner Matthew Riccitello.

Looking ahead to the conclusion of the Tour de la Provence, Frédéric expressed optimism: “There could be some action because quite a bit of wind is expected on a fairly exposed finishing circuit. We’ll make sure Rémi and Guillaume don’t lose their positions in the overall standings — or even improve them — and we’ll also aim for a result on the stage.”