Milan, Italy – March 31, 2026 – In a surprising move that initially felt like an elaborate April Fool’s Day joke, French biathlete Émilien Jacquelin, fresh off an Olympic relay gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, has signed with the Decathlon CMA CGM cycling team’s development program. The announcement, made on March 29th, has sparked considerable discussion, with some questioning whether the move is a genuine athletic pursuit or a publicity stunt.
However, those dismissing the signing as mere marketing overlook the existing relationship between Jacquelin and the team, and the fact that this ambition has been brewing for some time. The Decathlon CMA CGM team, already enjoying a surge in visibility thanks to the emergence of young French cycling sensation Paul Seixas, doesn’t necessarily *need* the added attention, suggesting this isn’t solely a promotional exercise.
From Biathlon Gold to Professional Peloton
Jacquelin, 30, is no stranger to cycling. He’s consistently incorporated it into his training regimen as a biathlete, recognizing its benefits for endurance and overall fitness. This isn’t a sudden whim, but rather the fulfillment of a long-held ambition. According to reports, the move was facilitated by his close relationship with Sébastien Joly, the team’s competition director. Jacquelin aims to test his physical limits in the demanding world of professional cycling.
“I want to live up to the team’s trust and make this childhood dream come true,” Jacquelin stated. “This is a project that has been brewing in the back of my mind. While the 2030 Winter Games in France remain a goal, I now feel the urge to explore something new and compete at the highest level in cycling by joining the DECATHLON CMA CGM team. I’ve always cycled, whether in my youth or during my physical training, but from now on, every day will be a new challenge. I’m convinced that the training methods, nutritional guidance, equipment provided by Van Rysel, and the team’s rigorous structure will allow me to progress and reach a new level. I want to deliver 100%, with no half-measures.”
The team’s management is equally enthusiastic. Jean-Baptiste Quiclet emphasized the opportunity for Jacquelin, stating, “Give him the chance to strive cycling with the team’s support.” Quiclet also highlighted Jacquelin’s existing connection to the team, noting his consistent engagement with riders and coaching staff. Cycling has long been a crucial component of his biathlon training, and this transition represents a natural progression.
A NewGen Program Opportunity
Jacquelin will join the Decathlon CMA CGM team through their NewGen program, beginning May 1st. This program is designed to nurture and develop promising young talent, and Jacquelin’s inclusion demonstrates the team’s willingness to embrace unconventional pathways. While the transition from biathlon to cycling is unusual, the team believes Jacquelin’s athleticism and dedication will translate well to the new discipline.
The challenge for Jacquelin will be significant. The demands of professional cycling are vastly different from those of biathlon. While both require exceptional endurance, cycling places a greater emphasis on explosive power, tactical awareness, and the ability to navigate the complexities of the peloton. He’ll need to adapt quickly to the nuances of road racing, including drafting, positioning, and responding to attacks.
It’s worth noting that the Decathlon CMA CGM team has been gaining momentum in the professional cycling world, particularly with the rise of Paul Seixas. Seixas’s recent success has already brought increased attention to the team, and Jacquelin’s arrival adds another layer of intrigue. The team’s investment in developing talent, combined with its commitment to innovation, positions it as a force to be reckoned with in the years to come.
For Jacquelin, this move represents a bold step into uncharted territory. He’s leaving behind a successful career in biathlon to pursue a childhood dream. While the road ahead will be challenging, he’s confident that the support of the Decathlon CMA CGM team will give him the best possible chance of success. The team’s structure, equipment, and expertise will be invaluable as he navigates the transition and strives to reach the highest level of professional cycling.
The decision to pursue cycling alongside maintaining a potential goal for the 2030 Winter Games in France demonstrates Jacquelin’s ambition and willingness to push his boundaries. It’s a testament to his dedication as an athlete and his desire to explore new challenges.
The next step for Jacquelin will be a rigorous training program designed to prepare him for the demands of professional cycling. This will include intensive cycling sessions, strength and conditioning work, and nutritional guidance. The team will closely monitor his progress and adjust the program as needed to ensure he’s ready to compete at the highest level.
Fans can follow Jacquelin’s journey and the Decathlon CMA CGM team’s progress on their official website: https://decathloncmacgmteam.com/en/. Updates on his training and racing schedule will be posted regularly.
What do you suppose of this surprising career change? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
