Benoît Cosnefroy Joins UAE Team Emirates: A New Chapter in His Cycling Journey
In an exciting twist for cycling fans, Benoît Cosnefroy has officially signed with UAE Team Emirates for the next two years. This transition marks a significant step for Cosnefroy, who has been every bit a part of the Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale team since turning pro in 2017. Now, armed with fresh ambitions, he’s ready to take on the world’s best in the one-day Classics.
A Solid Move for a Talented Rider
Cosnefroy’s arrival at UAE Team Emirates is more than just a new jersey; it’s a chance for him to shine on a grand stage. The UAE team, known for its stellar lineup, already boasts stars like Tadej Pogačar, Tim Wellens, and Jhonatan Narvaez. With this strong group, he’s stepping into a role that could be crucial during the hillier Classics, especially in the Ardennes.
This move comes after a tough season for Cosnefroy, who faced difficulties with a knee injury in 2025 and only completed 13 race days. Despite this setback, he returned stronger, achieving remarkable victories in 2024, including a time of glory at Brabantse Pijl. His punchy finishes set him apart, making him an exciting addition to the Classics team.
The Team’s Bright Future
With Cosnefroy on board, UAE Team Emirates is setting lofty goals. They’ve already made a name for themselves by achieving 95 season victories in 2025. With Cosnefroy’s remarkable performance in French one-day races, the team hopes to build on that success and maybe even surpass it in 2026.
“I’m very happy at the prospect of joining UAE Team Emirates–XRG,” Cosnefroy said. He expressed his excitement about this new adventure and confidence that this team is the right fit for him at this stage in his career. He can hardly wait to hit the roads with his new teammates.
A Shining Past and Promising Future
Cosnefroy’s history speaks for itself. He wore the polka dot jersey for 15 stages of the Tour de France in 2020, showcasing his climbing skills. He also made headlines in 2023 when he was controversially declared the winner of the Amstel Gold Race, only to later be declared second after a review—proof of his capability to compete at the highest level.
Meanwhile, Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale is reshaping its squad, focusing on new talents like sprinter Olav Kooij and promising GC rider Paul Seixas. This rebuild of the team gives them the space to grow while allowing Cosnefroy to chase more significant wins with UAE Team Emirates.
Final Thoughts for Cycling Fans
This change is not just about team colors; it’s about growth and new challenges. For aspiring cyclists, Cosnefroy’s story is a great reminder to keep pushing toward your dreams, even when the road gets bumpy. Whether you’re racing or enjoying a leisurely ride, every pedal forward counts. As Benoît Cosnefroy embarks on this new chapter, let’s cheer him on and look forward to the thrilling races ahead!
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