Paris-Tours is a fixture on the autumn cycling calendar. This year’s edition once again promises a tough day of racing over more than 210 kilometres. The decisive part of the race is in the area around Tours, where a series of short, sharp climbs follow in quick succession. Team Visma | Lease a Bike heads to the start of the French semi-classic with a seven-man line-up: Laporte, Dylan van Baarle, Olav Kooij, Matthew Brennan, Victor Campenaerts, Menno Huising and Julien Vermote. 

For Laporte, Paris-Tours is once again a key target. The 32-year-old Frenchman has had a difficult season and only returned to competition in mid-August. Last week, he immediately claimed a podium finish at Binche-Chimay-Binche. Now, he’s hoping to show himself again at Paris-Tours. 

“I have great memories of this race,” says Laporte. “Last year’s edition was incredibly tough because of the heavy rain. That win meant a lot to me, so I’m really looking forward to returning. Paris-Tours is an important race in France, and as a French rider, it’s always a great opportunity to perform on home soil. Wearing number one this weekend also makes it extra special.” 

“It’s been a tough season for me, but I feel like I’m getting better every week,” he continues. “I’ve been happy with how I’ve felt on the bike lately. I’m ready to give it my all in the final part of the season, starting with Paris-Tours. It would be fantastic to end the year on a high note. Plus, the upcoming races fit perfectly into my preparation for next season.”