Magnier sets sights on Tour de France but 'not next year'

While many young talents rush toward the sport's grandest race, Magnier displays remarkable self-awareness about his development path. The rising French star harbours clear ambitions about making his mark at the Tour but understands the immense challenge it represents after expectations have arisen from his spectacular 2025 season, where the young Frenchman took home 19 victories.

"Of course. Yes, yes, it definitely speaks to me," Magnier said when asked if winning a Tour stage appeals to him by francetv. "But not next year. It's an incredibly difficult race with huge pressure. Media pressure, sporting pressure, pressure from sponsors. It's very tough. It's the hardest race in the world."

The prospect of cycling's most coveted jersey remains a powerful motivation for the young Frenchman. "The day I feel ready, wearing the yellow jersey would be a feeling that's impossible to describe, indescribable. And I would love to feel that one day," he added.

Considered one of France's brightest cycling prospects, Magnier continues to build his capabilities while impressing observers with both his current abilities and long-term potential. His realistic assessment of the Tour challenge suggests a rider who understands the patience required for sustainable success at the highest level.

Regarding his 2026 aspirations, Magnier stated to Domestiqueat the Tour of Guangxi in China, “Next year I hope I can do even a bit better. But I let the steps go slowly, going step by step. And then, I hope in my career I can win a Monument or a big classic.”

Previously, Soudal Quick-Step CEO Jurgen Foré spoke to Het Laatste Nieuws regarding Magnier's chances of a 2026 Tour de France "It's far too early to talk about that, but maybe it's also too early to send Paul to the Tour," Foré cautioned. "Ok, he wins a lot, but we shouldn't forget that he's only 21," 

However, a young French talent that could be heading to the Tour in 2026 is 19-year-old Paul Seixas with Decathlon's performance director Jean-Baptiste Quicle stating, to Vélo Magazine “He could do a season without a Grand Tour, or he could compete in the Giro, the Tour or the Vuelta,"