Cédrine Kerbaol, the 23-year-old cyclist from Finistère, is gearing up for the Tour de France Femmes 2024 with a fresh mindset. After winning the white youth jersey and finishing 12th overall in her debut last year, Kerbaol is shifting her focus this time around.
Kerbaol shared that she won’t be chasing the general classification at any cost. Instead, she plans to race in a way that brings her joy. “I know it’s going to be difficult to go for yellow, so I just want to enjoy myself,” she said. This year, she wants to be more creative on the bike, unburdened by the pressure she felt last year while securing the white jersey.
The Breton rider has already had a strong season, with two victories and several top-10 finishes, which has raised her profile in the peloton. “Now, the favourites know who I am. When I’m in a group, they’re careful,” Kerbaol noted.
Her preparation for this year’s Tour has been different too. After a mountain camp in the Pyrenees and a final ride at home in the Kreiz Breizh Élites, Kerbaol feels both “physically and mentally relaxed” heading into the race. With her family and friends waiting to cheer her on at the Alpe d’Huez, Kerbaol is motivated not just by results, but by the opportunity to race on her own terms.
While she’s open to the idea of finishing in the top 8, Kerbaol is also focused on chasing a stage win. “But if I can enter the top 8, I’m not going to miss out!” she said, showing her competitive spirit. However, for Kerbaol, this year’s race is about more than just rankings; it’s about racing intelligently, having fun, and knowing she’s given it her all.
