The tenth edition of the CIC Tour de la Provence concluded this Sunday after three intense stages, marked by dreadful weather conditions and a thrilling sporting drama. For its anniversary edition, the Provençal race once again confirmed its place among the major events on the professional cycling calendar.
For ten years, the Tour de la Provence has thrilled the roads of Southern France, between the sea, rugged hills, and windswept plains. This 2026 edition not only celebrated a decade of existence, but also delivered a spectacle worthy of this symbolic anniversary.
For the third consecutive year as an official partner and equipment supplier of the event, Chef de File reaffirms its commitment to supporting the professional peloton. Being present at this 10th edition further reinforces the brand's dedication to supporting major French races and top-level cycling.
A rainy opening: Marseille - Saint-Victoret
The first stage, a 168.8-kilometer stretch between Marseille and Saint-Victoret, was contested in almost continuous rain, making the roads particularly demanding. In these difficult conditions, Arnaud Tendon, a recent addition to the Van Rysel-Roubaix team, delivered a remarkable performance.
Present in the breakaway from the very first kilometers, he managed to hold off the chasing peloton to win in style. This victory also allows him to take the lead in the points classification, rewarding his audacity and consistency throughout the stage.
The Lure Mountain under the snow
The second stage featured a summit finish on Montagne de Lure, at nearly 1,500 meters altitude. The riders had to contend with unusual conditions for the region: nearly fifty centimeters of snow framed the finish line, creating a spectacular setting.
After an intense finale, Matthew Riccitello (Decathlon CMA CGM) outsprinted Carlos Rodríguez to take the victory. This win at altitude puts him in the overall leader's jersey before the final stage, confirming his strength in decisive moments.
A tense finish between Rognac and Arles
The third and final stage, a 210-kilometer route between Rognac and Arles, was expected to be strategic. Exposed to the wind, it suggested the possibility of echelons and tactical maneuvers within the peloton, but the peloton remained relatively calm given the predicted wind speeds.
After a tense day, Axel Laurance (Ineos Grenadiers) emerged victorious, securing a French win for this anniversary edition. A dynamic conclusion that capped off a weekend of racing full of twists and turns.
Ten years of history, a clear ambition
The absence of two-time defending champion Mads Pedersen, injured before the race, reshuffled the deck and heightened the uncertainty of the outcome. This 10th edition thus revealed new ambitions and confirmed the strength of the international peloton. A pleasant surprise of this edition was also the Van Rysel-Roubaix team (3rd division - Continental team), rewarded not only for their presence at the podium ceremonies of all three stages but also for their consistent presence throughout the race, both at the front of the peloton and in breakaways! This tenth edition was won by the 22-year-old American, Matthew Riccitello, who triumphed by only 4 tenths!
For Chef de File, this renewed presence at the heart of the CIC Tour de la Provence is part of a sustainable approach: supporting major competitions, actively participating in the promotion of French professional cycling, and making its mark in the professional peloton!
Ten years after its creation, the Tour de la Provence continues to write its history, and Chef de File is proud to be a part of it!
Photo credit: Billy Ceusters
