Paul Seixas wins Tour de Lombardie, youngest victor since WWII
On 10 October 2026, French cyclist Paul Seixas, aged 20 years and 16 days, won the Tour de Lombardie in Como, Italy. This victory marks his first Monument win and makes him the youngest winner since World War II.
French cyclist Paul Seixas has made history by winning the 2026 Tour de Lombardie, held on 10 October in Como, Italy. At just 20 years and 16 days old, Seixas claimed his first Monument victory, establishing himself as the youngest winner of this prestigious race since World War II. Riding for the Decathlon-CMA CGM team, he executed a decisive solo attack on the Civiglio climb, finishing 48 seconds ahead of his closest competitor, Enric Mas, and 1 minute and 5 seconds ahead of Giulio Ciccone, who took third place. The Tour de Lombardie, often referred to as the 'Classique des feuilles mortes', is one of cycling's five Monuments, a series of the most prestigious one-day races. Seixas's victory is particularly notable as it marks the first time a French cyclist has won this race since 2019.
His success in Lombardie comes after a strong season, which also included a second-place finish at the renowned Liège-Bastogne-Liège earlier in the year. Seixas's triumph at the Tour de Lombardie represents not only a personal achievement but also a significant moment for French cycling. It reflects the potential of young athletes in the sport and highlights the effective training and support systems that have been established. His win is expected to inspire a new generation of cyclists in France, demonstrating that age does not limit success in competitive sports.
The broader implications of Seixas's victory extend beyond national pride. It contributes to the growing recognition of young talent in professional cycling, underscoring the importance of nurturing youth in the sport. As cycling continues to evolve, the emergence of younger champions like Seixas may influence team strategies and recruitment in the years to come. Looking ahead, Seixas's victory at the Tour de Lombardie sets the stage for his future in cycling. With a solid foundation and a successful season behind him, he is poised to become a significant figure in the sport.
His next challenges will include competing in other prestigious races and potentially aiming for further victories, all while continuing to develop his skills and experience. As he progresses, Seixas could play a vital role in shaping the future of cycling, both in France and on the international stage.
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