Belgian cyclist Steff Cras finds himself in a pivotal moment as he vies for selection in TotalEnergies’ Tour de France squad. With the team’s roster predominantly composed of French riders, Cras is now the last non-French rider in the lineup, making his bid for a spot even more competitive. His fate rests on the management’s selection criteria, and he remains hopeful that the decision will be based on performance rather than nationality.
Having demonstrated strong climbing ability and consistency in stage races, Cras is eager to bring his strengths to the Tour. However, he acknowledges the internal competition within the team and the potential for politics to play a role in the final decision. With star riders like Peter Sagan no longer in the squad, TotalEnergies is undergoing a transition, focusing on a mix of young talents and experienced climbers. This reshuffling makes the selection process even more unpredictable.
Cras’s performance in the lead-up races will likely determine his fate. His ability to support the team’s ambitions, particularly in mountainous stages, could give him an edge over other contenders. However, with a limited number of slots available, TotalEnergies’ management faces a difficult choice. Cras remains optimistic, stating, “I hope that they choose the best riders,” emphasizing his belief that sporting merit should be the ultimate factor in team selection.
As the Tour de France approaches, Cras must continue proving himself to secure his place. His situation highlights the challenges faced by non-French riders within a predominantly French team and underscores the broader dynamics of team selection in professional cycling. His battle for nomination will be a crucial storyline in the weeks leading up to the Tour.
