UAE boss Gianetti: Pogacar and Seixas in one team? 'It’s more than a dream'

Speaking to cyclismactu.net in the lead up to Milan-Sanremo, Gianetti did not hold back when asked about Seixas’ emergence. “It’s extraordinary to see a rider with such a clear talent like Paul Seixas,” he said. “What he has done at the start of the season is something really exceptional.”

The French prodigy has impressed across multiple fronts, combining raw power with composure well beyond his years. For Gianetti, that balance is what makes Seixas stand out in an already competitive peloton. “Not only at the physical level, but also the character he has shown in races,” he explained. “It’s something special.”

Cycling has seen a wave of generational talents in recent years, from Tadej Pogačar to Mathieu van der Poel and Remco Evenepoel. Gianetti believes Seixas belongs in that conversation. “It’s another rider who can bring spectacle to cycling,” he said, placing the Frenchman among the sport’s most exciting prospects.

His nationality only amplifies the attention. France has long searched for a rider capable of dominating at the highest level, and Seixas’ breakthrough has sparked renewed optimism. “For French cycling, it’s already something extraordinary,” Gianetti noted.

With performances have come inevitable questions about the future. While Gianetti avoided specifics, his comments made clear that UAE, like every top team, is monitoring the situation. “Like all teams, we are watching what he will do in the future,” he said. “But it’s the rider who will decide where he wants to go.”

That wider interest is no secret inside the peloton. Speaking recently to journalist Daniel Benson, his agent Joona Laukka said Seixas is in no rush to make a decision despite growing attention from major teams. “All the teams are interested, I would say, but that makes sense. Which teams would say no to Paul?” he said.

Seixas is currently under contract with Decathlon until the end of 2027, and discussions over a possible extension have been paused for now. From his camp, the priority is clear: time is on their side. “We’ll wait until it’s the time when Paul feels like it’s the right moment to decide,” Laukka explained, underlining that there is no internal deadline.

For now, Seixas remains in a stable environment, something Gianetti sees as essential for his development. “He is in a very good structure, a well united team,” he said, hinting that patience may be key before any major move.

Behind the scenes, UAE has already shown interest in nurturing young talent, including supporting Seixas’ younger brother Nino. The approach is deliberately hands off. “We support young riders with equipment, advice and guidance, but without contracts or obligations,” Gianetti explained.

That philosophy reflects a broader view within the team. “At that age, the priority must be studies,” he said. “We prefer they stay close to their families and continue their education.”

Still, the idea of Seixas one day joining forces with Pogačar is already capturing imaginations. Gianetti smiled when asked about the possibility. “It’s more than a dream,” he admitted.