Émilien Jacquelin Trades Biathlon for Cycling in Pursuit of Childhood Dream
Published: March 29, 2026
MILAN-CORTINA, Italy – Fresh off an Olympic relay gold medal at the Milan-Cortina Games in February, French biathlete Émilien Jacquelin is embarking on a surprising new challenge: a six-month stint with the Decathlon-CMA CGM cycling team. The 30-year-old will join the team’s development squad, “NewGen,” fulfilling a long-held ambition to compete in the sport that first ignited his passion for athletics.
Jacquelin, who famously honored Italian cycling legend Marco Pantani at the recent Winter Olympics by wearing the cyclist’s signature earring, described the move as “a bit of a crazy project,” but one rooted in a lifelong dream. “It’s an idea, a dream that I’ve had for many years,” he told RMC Sport. “It’s an opportunity to challenge myself, to prove to myself that I am capable of performing in another sport.”
From Biathlon Gold to Cycling Aspirations
The Olympic champion’s fascination with cycling dates back to his youth, when his father introduced him to the 1998 Tour de France. Jacquelin, who competed in sport-études (a French system combining school and intensive sports training) in Grenoble as a teenager, has long admired the boldness and attacking style of riders like Pantani. He has openly expressed a desire to emulate that spirit of daring on the bike.
“As a child my father bought the videotape of the 1998 Tour de France. From that moment I never stopped admiring the Pirate,” Jacquelin explained previously, referencing Pantani’s nickname. “I wanted to be like him: not only to win, but to thrill and excite. To do something spectacular. To be bold.”
This isn’t a sudden whim. Jacquelin has been carefully considering this transition, emphasizing that it will run parallel to his biathlon career. “I’m doing this hand in hand with biathlon, I don’t wish to do it to the detriment of the French team,” he assured, keeping his sights set on the 2030 Winter Olympics. “The 2030 Games, I’ve said it and I still believe it, is an objective.”
A Physical Transformation and a Long Road Ahead
Jacquelin acknowledges the significant physical adjustments required for success in cycling. He estimates he needs to lose approximately 11 pounds to be competitive. “I’m aware that a lot of groundwork awaits me,” he said. However, he remains undeterred, eager to test the limits of his body. “Even if I don’t succeed in this cycling challenge, it doesn’t matter. I will have no regrets and will be proud of what I have put in place.”
While ambitious, Jacquelin is realistic about his initial goals. He anticipates beginning his racing career in August, but understands that reaching the elite World Tour level will require considerable effort. “There are a huge number of steps to validate before even imagining World Tour races,” he cautioned. He dreams of competing in prestigious events like the Tour de France and Paris-Roubaix, but recognizes the substantial operate required to reach that level.
The move also represents a chance for Jacquelin to “get some mental freshness” away from the pressures of biathlon. “At some point, if I feel a real desire to do biathlon, then at least I will be certain of that will,” he stated.
Decathlon-CMA CGM Welcomes Jacquelin
Sébastien Joly, head of competition at Decathlon-CMA CGM, dismissed any suggestion that this was merely a marketing stunt. “For Émilien, it’s a bit of an alignment of the planets this year to live a childhood dream,” Joly told L’Équipe. “There’s an interest for him and for us, there are plenty of things to discover.”
Jacquelin’s story is a testament to the power of passion and the pursuit of dreams, even those that seem unconventional. His decision to step outside his comfort zone and embrace a new athletic challenge is inspiring, and his journey will be closely watched by fans of both biathlon and cycling.
The French biathlete’s tribute to Marco Pantani, wearing the cyclist’s earring during the Milan-Cortina Games, resonated deeply with fans and highlighted the enduring legacy of the Italian champion. Jacquelin’s commitment to honoring his idol extends beyond symbolic gestures, now manifesting in a bold attempt to compete in the sport Pantani dominated.
Jacquelin’s next confirmed checkpoint will be his debut with the Decathlon-CMA CGM development team in August. Fans can follow his progress through the team’s official channels and updates from RMC Sport and L’Équipe.
What do you think of Jacquelin’s bold move? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
