GP du Morbihan: Benoît Cosnefroy scores fourth victory at French one-dayer

Benoît Cosnefroy secured his fourth career victory at the GP du Morbihan, marking his third consecutive win at the French one-day race. Representing UAE Team Emirates-XRG, the French rider outpaced a 29-strong group to claim the 190km event in Plumelec, narrowly beating Decathlon-CMA CGM teammates Noa Isidore and Paul Lapeira in a thrilling sprint finish. This triumph represents Cosnefroy’s 22nd professional win and comes a year after his last success at the same race, underlining his continued dominance on home soil. The race unfolded with an early breakaway featuring Antonio Jesús Soto, Jean-Loup Fayolle, and Max Nielsen, who were eventually reeled in by the peloton with 22 kilometres remaining. Following their capture, a brief attack by Simen Evertsen-Hegreberg failed to stick, as the reduced peloton, whittled down by the race’s challenging climbs including multiple ascents of the Côte de Cadoudal, prepared for a decisive sprint. Cosnefroy’s team played a pivotal role in controlling the race dynamics, protecting their leader and positioning him perfectly for the final push. Cosnefroy expressed deep satisfaction with the victory, highlighting the emotional significance of winning in Brittany, where the passionate local crowd adds intensity to the race atmosphere. He praised his team’s flawless execution and credited their support for his success, dedicating the win to his grandfather. The rider also noted the pride of securing a French victory in his first race of the season with his new team on home soil, emphasising the personal and professional importance of the result. The final sprint saw Cosnefroy outclass his rivals with a powerful burst of speed, leaving Isidore and Lapeira unable to respond. Thibaud Gruel and Clément Venturini completed the top five, rounding off a competitive and tactical race. Cosnefroy’s continued success at the GP du Morbihan not only cements his status as a formidable one-day racer but also sets a positive tone for the remainder of his season with UAE Team Emirates-XRG.