Romain Grégoire Wins 2026 French National Road Cycling Championship; 2027 Route in Altkirch Unveiled

Romain Grégoire, 23, clinched his first-ever French National Road Cycling Championship title on June 28, 2026, during the challenging 225-kilometer race held in La Tour-du-Pin, Isère. In a dramatic finish, Grégoire broke away from the leading pack with just 3 kilometers remaining, outpacing competitors Paul Lapeira and Joris Delbove to seize victory. The defending champion, Dorian Godon, was unable to retain his title. Grégoire, who was runner-up in 2025, described the race as demanding, highlighting moments when his lead stretched beyond two minutes and crediting the support of his Groupama-FDJ United teammates for his composure and success. He expressed his emotional gratitude post-race and looked forward to representing France in the upcoming Tour de France while wearing the national champion’s jersey.

Looking ahead to the 2027 French National Cycling Championships, organizers revealed a challenging route centered in Altkirch. For the first time in France, time trials will commence inside the Palais des Sports in Mulhouse, covering a 30.9-kilometer course that passes through several towns including Brunstatt, Bruebach, and Hirtzbach before finishing in Altkirch. The following Sunday, the professional women's road race will begin in Saint-Louis, which will also host the ceremonial podium presentations. The race will feature the same 16.9-kilometer circuit from the previous year, beginning in Altkirch and including a daunting 18% incline at Roggenberg before culminating on rue du Maréchal-Foch.

This announcement signals exciting changes and formidable challenges for the competitors in 2027, while the 2026 championship marked a breakthrough for the talented Grégoire, whose victory has energized the French cycling scene.