Faun-Ardèche Classic 2026
28.02
Paul Seixas (Decathlon CMA CGM) was in a league of his own as he soloed over 40km to victory at the Faun-Ardèche Classic in Guilherand-Granges. The final 40km were a demonstration of all things Seixas and what makes him one of the most exciting stars of the peloton as he romped his way to his second professional victory. In the end, Jan Christen (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) battled his way to 2nd place at 1:48, whilst Lenny Martinez (Bahrain-Victorious) took 3rd and Jorgenson 4th in a three-man sprint.
How to watch?
Curious about how to watch the 2026 Faun-Ardèche Classic? Discover it in our complete how to watch guide, featuring a full overview of all broadcasters and streaming options.
The route
The Faun Ardèche Classic covers 187.6km around Guilherand Granges and packs over 3,000 metres of climbing into a relentless loop. The race hits the Côte du Pin early, then the Col de la Justice, before the decisive circuit begins.
The key feature is the Val d’Enfer, a short but savage 1.5km climb tackled four times, with ramps up to 14 percent that invite repeated attacks. Just before it sits the Mur de Costabelle, a 300 metre sting that can split a tiring group and set up moves onto Val d’Enfer.
The final ascent of Val d’Enfer comes a little over five kilometres from the line, making late attacks very hard to bring back.
Full preview can be found via this link.
Favourites
Romain Grégoire starts as the reference point because the course suits his punch and timing, plus he knows how to win here. Christian Scaroni arrives in strong early season form and has shown he can be aggressive on these roads, whether from a reduced group or with a late move.
Super talent Paul Seixas is another major threat, carrying momentum and the ability to surge on steep ramps. Ben Healy is the wildcard for a long range attack if the favourites hesitate, while Matteo Jorgenson brings engine and race craft for a selective finale. Jordan Jegat is a solid outsider if the race becomes a war of attrition and a smaller group survives to the final run in.
Read our preview here and explore the startlist via this link.
