Paul Seixas loses vital climbing domestique Matthew Riccitello on stage 1 of the Dauphiné

Paul Seixas faces a significant setback at the Dauphiné after his key climbing domestique, Matthew Riccitello, was forced to abandon the race on the opening stage. Riccitello, a promising young American rider for Decathlon CMA CGM, had been an integral part of Seixas’s support team throughout the season, including recent races like the Algarve and Itzulia Basque Country. The pair had also trained together at altitude in Sierra Nevada, underscoring Riccitello’s importance to Seixas’s preparation for what he terms his Tour de France "rehearsal." Unfortunately, illness struck Riccitello early in the race, leading to his withdrawal. Riccitello’s condition was apparent even before the start in Vizille, with Seixas revealing to broadcasters that the rider was unwell, possibly due to food poisoning. This was confirmed shortly after the race began when Riccitello was dropped on the first climb, an unusual occurrence given his climbing prowess. Decathlon CMA CGM quickly announced his withdrawal via social media, expressing their hopes for a speedy recovery. Riccitello’s departure is a blow to the team’s strategy, especially as they had planned for aggressive tactics in the race’s finale, with Riccitello expected to play a vital role. Despite Riccitello’s absence, Seixas retains a strong supporting cast at the Dauphiné, including experienced teammates such as Nicolas Prodhomme, Aurélien Paret-Peintre, Daan Hoole, Stefan Bissegger, and Léo Bisiaux. Riccitello, 24, has shown considerable promise since joining Decathlon CMA CGM from Israel-Premier Tech, with notable results including a sixth-place overall finish at the Algarve and a victory at the Tour de Jura. While he is not slated to ride the Tour de France alongside Seixas, his form suggested he was in contention for selection, with the Vuelta a España likely to become his focus if his illness persists. The loss of Riccitello highlights the unpredictable nature of stage racing and the challenges teams face in maintaining their strongest line-ups. For Seixas, who is aiming to use the Dauphiné as a key stepping stone towards the Tour de France, the absence of a crucial domestique will require adjustments in tactics and reliance on other team members. The coming stages will test Decathlon CMA CGM’s depth and resilience as they navigate the demanding race without one of their most promising young climbers.