A bunch sprint was expected in Arles, and a bunch sprint did happen to complete the 2025 Tour de la Provence. However, it turned out to be quite messy, as a big crash occurred just 100 metres from the line. Because of it, Paul Penhoët was unable to make a proper effort and had to settle for fifth place at the finish. Because of the day’s bonus seconds, Thibaud Gruel dropped back in the overall standings but remained in the top 10 (9th).
In other circumstances, the third and final stage of the Tour de la Provence would have been quite calm, with a peloton easily controlling the morning breakaway. Not today. On Sunday, heading towards Arles, the final stage of the French event proved lively to say the least, and for a clear reason. “We witnessed a fight for the bonus seconds, which could allow some riders to move up overall given that the gaps were tight,” explained Yvon Caër. Although the first intermediate sprint was located after seventy kilometres, the peloton still controlled and neutralized all attempts of breakaways. Everything was all together after an hour and a half of racing. “There was a strong sprint,” said Yvon. “We tried to get in the mix with Thibaud, but against Jake Stewart and Marijn van den Berg, we couldn’t do anything. As a result, these two riders passed us in the general classification.” After that, a six-man breakaway was finally able to develop and managed to stay away later on to get the bonus seconds of the other intermediate sprint, located twelve kilometres from the finish. “After the first sprint, we switched to Paul 100% for the final sprint,” claimed Yvon. The last few kilometres were somewhat hectic because of a few roundabouts, and the breakaway was only caught at the flamme rouge.
“We saw some positive things,” Yvon Caër
The anticipated sprint did indeed take place, but in special conditions. “We tried to do our best, Clément positioned Paul ideally, even if Paul lost his wheel for a bit,” explained Yvon. “Above all, Paul unclipped after Ackermann crashed with 100 metres to go. I don’t think he had the chance to win, because Bennett and Van den Berg came with high speed on the right of the road, but third place was probably within reach. He didn’t crash, that’s something…” Fifth on the line after his sixth place the day before, the French sprinter now has four top-10s this season. Thibaud Gruel tallies three after taking eighth on Friday and Saturday, and his ninth place overall. “We came with a very clear GC goal with Paul,” concluded Yvon. “The first stage put us in trouble from that regard, but we saw some positive things. Thibaud is progressing, even if he still lacks bearings. I am convinced that routes such as those we’ve done on this Tour de la Provence can really suit him in the future. A top 10 overall is not unimportant for a young rider. He is learning, and we are convinced that his abilities will allow him to go even higher. Paul has left his illness behind him, and we’ve seen nice things setting up with Clément and Cyril. They found their way of working. With health, a little luck and confidence, it will pay off!”
