In this episode, we sit down with one of the brightest young talents in professional cycling — Valentin Paret-Peintre. At just 24, he’s already claimed stage victories at the Giro d’Italia, the Tour of Oman, and made history as the fifth Frenchman ever to win atop Mont Ventoux during his maiden Tour de France.
Join us for a relaxed and insightful conversation recorded during pre-season camp, as Valentin opens up about life with Soudal Quick-Step, his favorite alpine climbs, his power-to-weight secrets, and how growing up in a cycling-obsessed family shaped his journey.
If you're a fan of the high mountains, French alpine gems, and the inner mindset of a pure climber – this one's for you!
The interview was recorded as a friendly chat at the beginning of the season, following a product feedback session.
– LINKS –
Host: Soren Jensen
Climbs:
– CHAPTERS –
00:00 – Quickfire intro
00:39 – Welcome & Valentin’s rise: Giro stage win to Ventoux glory
01:45 – Riding with the Wolfpack: New chapter with Soudal Quick-Step
03:13 – Settling in with the team & first impressions from training camp
04:35 – Why the Giro d’Italia is his favorite Grand Tour
05:39 – Growing up in Haute-Savoie & descending skills
06:49 – Favorite local climb: Col de la Colombière
08:08 – Riding for joy, peace & scenery — not always for coffee
09:40 – Reflections on mountain solitude & wild landscapes
10:51 – Hidden gem climbs: Col de l’Arpettaz and others
11:49 – What makes a world-class climber: More than just numbers
13:27 – Beating personal records at the Giro & Tour de Suisse
15:21 – In-the-saddle vs out-of-saddle: His climbing technique
16:09 – Bodyweight, gym work & nutrition
18:06 – Training efforts: Torque work, over/unders, and VO2 sets
20:32 – Training solo vs in groups & life in Chambéry
22:11 – Annual New Year's ride around Lac Léman tradition
22:58 – Aero obsession: Race suits vs jersey/shorts
24:23 – Castelli product insights & racing with innovation
25:21 – First impressions of the Sanremo S8 race suit
26:16 – Why he joined Soudal Quick-Step & learning from Remco & Landa
29:51 – Not ready to lead just yet — embracing a support role
31:51 – Eyeing the Tour de France debut in 2025
33:02 – On racing the Tour as a French rider: Personal dream
34:06 – Favorite Tour climb: Col du Galibier and its magic
36:08 – Favorite off-season meal? Spaghetti alla bolognese 🍝
36:41 – Outro & thanks
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