Célia Gery has had an exceptional season. First, she excelled in the Women’s Tour de l’Avenir, then was crowned U23 World Champion on the road race. The young Frenchwoman confirmed her position as one of the rising stars of international cycling.
On the roads of the Tour de l’Avenir, Gery set the pace from the first stage in Saint-Galmier, winning in a bunch sprint against the best sprinters in the peloton. The hillier second stage allowed her to demonstrate her ability to manage the race and her efforts, finishing in the peloton but staying close to the leaders. She then followed up with a victory on the third stage in Lugny, on a final climb, before concluding her week in spectacular fashion in the Jura region, on the Montagnat–Val-Suran stage, where she resisted attacks on the climbs and claimed her third victory, reclaiming the green jersey for best sprinter. Three victories in four stages and remarkable consistency laid the foundation for her confidence heading into the world championships.
At the U23 World Championships, Célia Gery was untouchable. But behind this victory, Marion Bunel’s key role must be highlighted. The road captain was able to control the race, neutralize opposing attacks, and protect Gery until the decisive moment. Thanks to this collective effort, the young Frenchwoman was able to display all her power and tactical intelligence to win the rainbow jersey.
This victory not only reflects Célia Gery’s individual talent. It also illustrates the strength of French women’s cycling, capable of combining strategy, solidarity, and power. At 19, Gery confirms that she is no longer just a hopeful but a complete rider, capable of shining on all terrains and in all situations. Her season, punctuated by these exploits, suggests a very promising future for her and for French cycling.
