INEOS Grenadiers are proud to announce the signing of exciting French rider Kévin Vauquelin, who will join the team on a three-year deal from 2026.
At just 24 years old, Vauquelin's performances have continued to evolve including his maiden stage victory at the 2024 Tour de France in Bologna and a breakthrough GC performance finishing seventh in this year's Tour.
Since turning professional in 2022, Vauquelin has also achieved overall wins at Etoile de Bessèges and the Tour des Alpes Maritimes et du Var; second at this year’s Tour de Suisse; and two runner-up finishes at La Flèche Wallonne.
His consistency and flair underscore why he’s regarded as such an exciting prospect in the professional peloton.
Vauquelin said: “I’m extremely proud to join a team like INEOS Grenadiers which has shaped the history of cycling for over a decade - both in Grand Tours and across the calendar. I’m still in shock.”
Vauquelin joins the team from Arkéa-B&B Hotels, where he quickly developed into a rider capable of shining on the biggest stage.
“Arkéa - B&B Hotels will always be important to me. It’s the team where I turned pro, where they trusted me and gave me responsibility. I was able to thrive and learn my job in a calm environment.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Vauquelin said: “I’m really excited to discover a new environment, new teammates, new equipment and a new way of working with the staff group. For me, it’s the logical next step in my career to continue my progression and explore new horizons.
“I have participated in two Tour de France editions, and each time it was an emotional rollercoaster. In 2024, I went from a tough moment on the first stage to immense joy on the second day when I won in Bologna. This year, I knew my preparation was good, and I arrived confident. I discovered myself at every stage, lived crazy moments, especially when the Tour passed through my home region of Normandy, and I hung in every day. Even now, I think I’ve experienced something completely wild, and I’m proud of myself. For the future, I know I still have a lot to discover, but I’ll work even harder to get closer to the best.”
Vauquelin also paid tribute to the incredible support he has already felt from fans: “I never could have imagined it. On some stages, my ears were ringing from hearing my name so much. I even saw my face on a hot air balloon! At the Tour, everything is amplified and I tried to live it to the fullest while staying true to myself. It makes me proud and motivates me a lot. Thanks to everyone for this support, from the bottom of my heart.”
Sir Dave Brailsford, said: “I’ve been excited to watch Kevin’s progress over the past couple of seasons. Not only is he a punchy rider who knows how to win, at this year’s Tour I was impressed to see him add a new dimension to his racing. He races with intelligence and ambition - qualities that fit perfectly with the Grenadiers.
“We believe his best years are ahead of him and we’re excited to help him realise his potential.”