Pauline Ferrand-Prévot definitely entered the history and the pantheon of French sport by winning this Sunday, August 3, August 3 Tour de France women 202536 years later Jeannie Longo ! Legendary, historical, memorable, sensational … Adjectives are missing to describe the feat achieved by the 33 -year -old Rémoise, who also added a victory in symbolic yellow to Châtel On the 9th and last step to complete your triumph! Olympic mountain bike champion at Jo of Paris 2024 and multiple world champion in all cycling disciplines, PFP A little more widens his immense record a little more and succeeds in his first participation his crazy bet to win the yellow jersey on the largest cycling race in the world. Headed a little more after the first celebrations, Pauline Ferrand-Prévot returned in more detail during a long evening conference on this extraordinary victory and everything it implies for the future, and in particular its future …
Pauline, you often talk about your team, but also your parents, present all week with you in a motorhome. What role have they played in your journey?
My parents are the most important people for me. They are there in good times, but also in the worst. When I call them at the last minute to ask them if they can follow me in a motorhome for recognitions or training, they always respond. I think I owe them a lot. No, it's not that I think: I owe them everything. If I'm here today, it's really thanks to them.
If you were asked to choose a single significant victory in your career, which one would be?
It's hard to choose. Each race has a particular flavor. The Olympic Games was the victory I wanted to validate my career. The Tour de France was a little girl's dream, not an obligation, but an accomplishment. And then Paris-Roubaix, it was completely unexpected, a crazy day. These victories are all unique, but they each have a special meaning.
You gave yourself three years to win the Tour. You succeeded in the first year. What sequel do you plan?
To be honest, I trained so hard that the idea of starting again already tires me. My preparation is very intense, almost extreme. I devote my life to this over several months, and that's not something that I can repeat several times a year. Currently, I just want to savor, be proud of the work accomplished and enjoy this victory.
Before, you said you dreamed of being a boy to go around. How about today to the little girl you were?
I would say to him: believe in your dreams. You have to work hard, never let go. There will be moments of doubt, but if you persevere, the work will always end up paying.
When did you believe in victory?
Yesterday (Saturday), I was happy to have the yellow jersey, but I knew there was a stage. I avoided social networks to stay focused. The last step was complicated, with a lot of wind. At one point, I was in a second group after a placement error. Fortunately, my team reacted quickly. Then I decided to attack myself. I said to myself, “You have to do something.” Once launched, I couldn't go back. I didn't really take advantage of the stage, but in the end, it was worth it.
You said 10 years ago that you were bored on the road. Today you won everything. Does it make you want to shorten your contract?
No, on the contrary. I like what I do. My team understands me, leaves me my freedom. It is a monk life, sometimes hard, but that's where I feel the most myself. I want to go to the end of my two years of contract. I don't feel ready to stop. I don't know if I would have the same goals, but I will find it!
A successful round for the French. Does that make you want for the Worlds or Europe?
Yes, it was beautiful to see so many people on the side of the road. Maéva's two victories, Juliette today was impressive. For my part, I will first savor, rest. Then I will think about my goals.
And this world home championship in 2027?
I think about it, yes. To end my career on such a race, at home, it would be very beautiful. A nice end -of -career goal, clearly.
You have already won almost everything. What remains to aim?
I still have classics like the Tour of Flanders or Liège-Bastogne-Liège. But I'm also tired, I need a break. I am still two years old with my team that I love. I will continue to aim for other beautiful races.
Your weight loss has been noticed. Some opponents wonder. What is your message?
Everyone is preparing in their own way. For Roubaix, I am heavier to have more power. For this tour, I had to climb, so I adapted my body. Yes, this is not a form that I can keep all year round. It is punctual, supervised, and followed by the team. This is not an example to follow permanently. You have to understand that it is my job, that I do my best. But tonight, I will eat a pizza … and a cake!
Female cycling evolves. What do you hope for your sport?
Female cycling grows very quickly. Of course, we want to get to the same level as men, but it takes time. Things are moving forward, especially on the Tour de France. There are more and more spectators. You have to be patient, do not want to burn the steps. Our sport is changing well. Give him time.
