Top talent alert at Groupama-FDJ in the Vuelta: Gregoire on the hunt for stages, Martinez dreams of strong general classification

Earlier in the day, Gregoire had already commented on his Vuelta selection in a Groupama-FDJ press release, his first grand tour. "When they told me in December that they would be taking a young team to the Vuelta, I was surprised. However, the idea has settled in, and I think it's a strong gesture, a good sign of confidence. Now, we are on the eve of the Vuelta, and I am very keen to participate."

With a starting formation that is stronger than ever, the French outfit is indeed showcasing the stars of tomorrow. Gregoire recently dominated the Tour du Limousin, securing two stage wins and the overall classification. Martinez impressed by winning the CIC - Mont Ventoux in June. "For me, it doesn't matter if there are two or ten big riders at the start; it doesn't change my Vuelta. My first grand tour will be challenging, but we've already seen this year that I can hold my own at the WorldTour level," said the 20-year-old Gregoire. "I not only want to finish the race but also make an impression. That's why I've already studied the course well and know that on the days I've marked, I'll have to give it my all."

While listening to Gregoire, one hears the ambitions of a stage hunter. When asked by this website if he also has thoughts of competing in the general classification, he immediately shakes his head. "I'm definitely not thinking about the general classification; I don't want to finish 25th or 30th. I would rather aim for stage wins," said the Frenchman, who admits that he is feeling some nerves. "It was a good week in Limousin, but this is a new race. I'm a little nervous, but I'm looking forward to getting started. The team atmosphere is great; everyone is young and knows each other well. We laugh a lot together, which I think is good for a grand tour."

For general classification ambitions, one should rather look towards Martinez at Groupama-FDJ. He openly admits that he wants to be among the great classification riders one day. "It's amazing for me to be in a grand tour in my first year in the WorldTour. I'm not nervous because I've performed well this year. My goal for this season was to win a race, and I've already accomplished that. My ambition now is to learn in this Vuelta, and if I can go for a good result, I will. Winning a stage would be the ultimate goal, but I'd also like to aim for the general classification without any problems or crashes. I'm here to learn because in the future, I'd like to compete against Jonas Vingegaard and Primoz Roglic. Maybe one day I can be like them."