“You’re lacking in clear thinking when you’re making a big effort. People don’t understand that aspect. Many people watch the Tour de France and think that simply hanging on is cheating, even though you’re allowed four seconds. In any case, I know I didn’t intend to cheat. I’m at peace with myself. As for Thibaut Pinot, I don’t have much to say. I don’t know why he reacted that way.”
2026 still unclear — and praise for rising French talent
Despite winning four races in his first season with Bahrain Victorious, including Paris-Nice and Criterium du Dauphine stages, Martinez fell short of securing a Tour stage or the polka dot jersey. He remains unsure whether next year will bring a GC attempt or another polka-dot campaign.
“Honestly, I don’t know what the objectives will be for the Tour de France in 2026. Of course, winning a stage will be an objective, but regarding the general classification, I don’t know yet, we’ll see little by little with the team and the staff.”
While Martinez may no longer carry the mantle of France’s lone great hope, he is enthusiastic about the rise of Decathlon-AG2R’s Paul Seixas, who stunned many in 2025 with bronze at the European Championships and seventh at Il Lombardia.
“I’m quite impressed by what he’s doing. At his age, frankly, he’s at an extraordinary level, and I think he has enormous potential in the Grand Tours,” Martinez said. “In 2026, he can aim for something in the Tour de France. Seriously, given his level this year, finishing 7th in Il Lombardia, he can win a stage.”
“Plus, he’ll have improved with another six months of experience, and I think he has what it takes to compete in the Tour de France. But it’s his decision. If he wants to do the Tour, he should do it. If he doesn’t want to and prefers to do a Vuelta, then he should do a Vuelta first.”
From sticky-bottle scrutiny to a fierce fight for French cycling’s future, Martinez’s words underline a rider determined to move forward — and one keeping a close eye on the country’s next potential superstar.
