A complete and well-balanced team lined up at the start of the Tour du Limousin-Périgord. The numbers speak for themselves: before the final stage, Team TotalEnergies had consistently placed three riders in the Top 10 on every stage.
Racing on home soil, Baptiste Vadic was the first to shine in Dun-le-Palestel, with the local rider securing a strong sixth-place finish. The following two stages, more suited to punchy riders, then began to shape the final general classification.
In Lanouaille, Mattéo Vercher and Alexandre Delettre delivered a strong collective performance, finishing second and fourth respectively. The following day, Alexandre Delettre was once again in the mix, securing another fourth-place finish. A second consecutive fourth place for the Frenchman, frustratingly close to the podium, but one that only strengthened his desire to try again.
An action-packed final stage
First Baptiste Vadic, then Valentin Retailleau also looked to make their mark. The Limoges native went clear on the finishing circuit in his hometown, having already spent time on the attack the previous day. Another bold move that ultimately did not make it to the finish.
On the final lap, Team TotalEnergies had strength in numbers at the front. Valentin Retailleau once again set the attacks in motion before Mathis Le Berre took his turn to go clear, aiming to wear down the leader’s team.
Despite our riders’ repeated attacks, a bunch sprint eventually became inevitable. Alexandre Delettre then put his finishing speed to good use to secure another podium and round off his week in style.
The Frenchman finished inside the Top 10 on every stage of the race, underlining his remarkable consistency.
A strong collective performance
With numerous top placings, two stage podiums and a team classification victory on every stage, Team TotalEnergies was one of the most prominent teams throughout this edition.
Victory ultimately eluded the Vendée-based team, despite a week full of attacking racing and consistent performances. In the general classification, Mattéo Vercher finished third, just ahead of Alexandre Delettre in fourth. Mathis Le Berre (8th) also enjoyed a strong week on the roads of Limousin.
No victory this time, but plenty of positive signs and a team that was constantly involved at the front of the race.
A team full of character leaves the Tour du Limousin-Périgord with just one thing in mind: coming back stronger and taking its revenge.
