Groupama – FDJ have confirmed the signing of Clément Berthet
for the 2026 season, adding a proven climber to their roster. The 28-year-old
Frenchman has spent over four years with Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale, riding two
Tours de France, most recently finishing 36th in the general classification
this summer. He will join Groupama – FDJ’s climbers’ squad on a three-year
deal, working alongside riders such as David Gaudu and Romain Grégoire.
Berthet’s career has been unconventional. Originally a
mountain biker, he switched to road racing in 2021 and quickly established
himself in the professional peloton. His best result in 2025 was a runner-up
finish in the general classification at the Vuelta a Andalucía Ruta Ciclista
Del Sol. He also took 4th place on stage 6 of the 2024 Vuelta a España and 5th
on stage 9 of the 2023 Tour de France. Those results underline a rider with the
climbing pedigree and consistency to be a valuable asset in stage races.
Leaving Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale comes at a time of
transition for his current team. With the arrival of a new sponsor and a larger
budget, the French outfit is aiming for a place among the sport’s elite.
Reports suggest they are targeting riders like Olav Kooij and nurturing talents
such as Paul Seixas. For Berthet, the shift to Groupama – FDJ represents a new
chapter in a squad he sees as both a national standard-bearer and a WorldTour
mainstay.
In the team’s announcement, Berthet said, “Groupama-FDJ, as
a Frenchman, that speaks volumes! It’s a bit of a spearhead at the French
level, in addition to being a reference at the WorldTour level for many years.
My adolescence was built on the first exploits of Thibaut Pinot; it’s a
legendary team in the peloton.
“I’ll arrive full of ambition, with the desire to perform
and enjoy these years, which are probably the best for me physically. The fact
that I’m from Besançon is a little extra, but above all, I want to join a team
with a human touch, which offers an ideal environment to express myself and
perform in the biggest races. I’ll have great opportunities to express myself
and bring consistency to the group of climbers, with Guillaume Martin-Guyonnet
and David Gaudu.”
Groupama – FDJ sports director Philippe Mauduit also praised
the signing. “Clément is a rider who stands out for his personality, his
talent, and his team spirit. His climbing skills make him an additional asset
to our team.
“Clément will seize his opportunity when it presents itself,
while being a rider our climbers can rely on to help the team achieve great
results. Clément is entering his prime years, and we are counting on him to
share his experience and make the team shine in the most beautiful races on the
calendar.”