Cedrine Kerbaol Writes Her Name in Tour de France’s History

Bravery often brings rewards when you have confidence and trust in what you’re doing. The young Cedrine Kerbaol has been intrepid, strong and smart, and she ended up making history by winning the sixth stage of the Tour de France, one of the toughest of this edition.

With 14 kilometers to go, the rider from Ceratizit-WNT broke away fearlessly from a group containing the race’s top contenders, the world-class elite. Cedrine didn’t look back; she had no doubt whatsoever. She knew she was a threat to the rest of her competitors, having started the stage in fourth place overall, she knew no one would allow her to hesitate.
And she didn’t. She masterfully launched herself into the last descent of the day. The turns, the rough asphalt, the patched-up road, the heart in one’s throat—it was the longest 14 kilometers for those of us watching her feat on television.

And although Cedrine is young, she is no newcomer. At home, she keeps the white jersey she earned in last year’s Tour and this stage in Morteau is her third victory of the current season.

Consistency and attention are also guarantees of success. Ceratizit-WNT has been working for years with each of its riders, ensuring they all form a close-knit family that knows and works in perfect harmony. This family includes Orbea, which has been with the team for nearly five seasons.

This Friday, everyone in Mallabia held their breath for 14 long kilometers; there was no fainting, but a resounding final cheer could be heard when Cedrine managed to make history.

The 23-year-old has written her name as the first French rider to win a stage in the Tour de France.

The name Cedrine Kerbaol is already etched in stone in the memory of France. Her red and blue Orca will remain in the nation’s mind, and Cedrine will never be able to forget it.