Already focused on the last stage
# Groupama-FDJ Eyes Final Stage After Setbacks in Tour de Luxembourg
The Groupama-FDJ cycling team participated in the fourth stage of the Tour de Luxembourg this Saturday with a focus that transcended immediate results. Despite Ethan Hayter’s impressive victory and Brandon McNulty’s ascent to the leader’s jersey, Romain Grégoire and his teammates had their sights firmly set on the final stage scheduled for Sunday.
After experiencing what he termed a “bad day” on Friday, Grégoire found himself out of contention for the general classification. Thus, during the crucial time trial held on a challenging 26-kilometre route around Niederanven, his ambitions were notably tempered. Enzo Paleni emerged as the standout performer for Groupama-FDJ, finishing twenty-second—1 minute and 47 seconds behind the winner, Hayter—yet only 25 seconds off the top 10. Benoît Vaugrenard spoke positively about Paleni’s performance, stating, “Enzo wanted to do it well,” while noting that the remaining riders, including Grégoire, aimed to recuperate after a demanding first three days of the tour.
Reflecting on his mindset, Romain shared, “I was already thinking about tomorrow. I had nothing to gain today, so I tried to ‘recover’ a little in order to do a good stage tomorrow.” This sentiment seems to be echoed throughout the team, as Benoît noted, “Everyone is motivated.”
Saturday’s time trial resulted in significant shifts in the general classification, with McNulty claiming the lead. As the Tour de Luxembourg draws closer to its conclusion, the final stage promises both challenges and opportunities. Benoît elaborated on what awaits the team, saying, “We’ll finish with a short twelve-kilometre circuit including a very steep climb one kilometre from the finish. It’s a stage that suits us well; David won it twice, and we’ll try to go for it again.”
Despite forecasts of unfavorable weather, the team remains optimistic. “I took the opportunity to recon the finish this morning, before the time trial,” Romain added. “Let’s hope that the legs will be there this time.” With determination, the Groupama-FDJ cycling team prepares to give their all in what could be a climactic finale.
