As riders prepare to resume training, the Vendée team is still looking for a main sponsor, but its president remains confident.
October is drawing to a close and the cyclists of the Vendée team will soon be back in training. Yet the team has still not announced a new title sponsor to take over from TotalEnergies. Its president, Jean-René Bernaudeau, remains resolutely optimistic as discussions continue with several companies interested in the project.
In an interview reported by the regional press, Jean-René Bernaudeau admitted that without the support of Stéphane Heulot, he would probably have brought the adventure to an end back in July. This statement underlines the importance of the role played by the former rider in keeping the team going, even though the financial situation remains tight.
Currently, the Vendée-based structure is operating on a provisional budget while awaiting the conclusion of an agreement. Four companies have reportedly expressed interest in becoming the team's main partner. Jean-René Bernaudeau says talks are progressing well and that he has no doubt about a positive outcome, although he gives no indication as to the identity of the candidates or a precise timeline.
This situation is nothing new in professional cycling, where the search for funding is a constant challenge. For the Vendée team, the stakes are high: ensuring its sporting and administrative survival. The president points out that the team has already overcome difficult periods and can count on a solid network of local partners.
In the meantime, the riders will prepare for next season with the determination to perform well, while the management finalises ongoing matters. Although no agreement has been signed to date, the confidence shown by Jean-René Bernaudeau suggests that the Vendée team will continue on its way in 2026.
In an interview reported by the regional press, Jean-René Bernaudeau admitted that without the support of Stéphane Heulot, he would probably have brought the adventure to an end back in July. This statement underlines the importance of the role played by the former rider in keeping the team going, even though the financial situation remains tight.
Currently, the Vendée-based structure is operating on a provisional budget while awaiting the conclusion of an agreement. Four companies have reportedly expressed interest in becoming the team's main partner. Jean-René Bernaudeau says talks are progressing well and that he has no doubt about a positive outcome, although he gives no indication as to the identity of the candidates or a precise timeline.
This situation is nothing new in professional cycling, where the search for funding is a constant challenge. For the Vendée team, the stakes are high: ensuring its sporting and administrative survival. The president points out that the team has already overcome difficult periods and can count on a solid network of local partners.
In the meantime, the riders will prepare for next season with the determination to perform well, while the management finalises ongoing matters. Although no agreement has been signed to date, the confidence shown by Jean-René Bernaudeau suggests that the Vendée team will continue on its way in 2026.
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Source: Ouest-France