Benoît Cosnefroy claimed his first victory for UAE Team Emirates-XRG with a late sprint win at the Grand Prix du Morbihan in Brittany.
The French rider won on home roads after timing his finish on the final uphill drag in Plumelec. He crossed the line ahead of Noa Isidore of Decathlon CMA CGM and Paul Lapeira, also of Decathlon CMA CGM.
The result gave UAE Team Emirates-XRG their 28th win of the 2026 season.
The 190km race was shaped by repeated attacks across the rolling Breton roads. The final circuits around the Côte de Cadoudal split the front group, as the climb’s steep ramps forced several riders out of contention.
UAE Team Emirates-XRG kept Cosnefroy protected through the key stages of the race. Rune Herregodts and Rui and Ivo Oliveira helped manage the dangerous moves before the final selection formed inside the last 20 kilometres.
Cosnefroy stayed near the front as the pace lifted on the last ascent. Filippo Baroncini then led him into position before the Frenchman opened his sprint on the uphill finish.
He quickly created a gap and held off Isidore to seal the win.
“This is a very special win for me,” Cosnefroy said. “Racing in Brittany is always hard and emotional because the public here is incredible.”
“The team rode a perfect race today. They protected me, controlled the attacks and put me in the best position for the final.”
“I’m proud to win after the trust the team put in me. To win in France my first race for the new team in France is something I’m very proud of. I’d like to dedicate this win to my grandfather.”
The win follows a strong spring for Cosnefroy, who had already finished on the podium at De Brabantse Pijl and Amstel Gold Race.
UAE Team Emirates-XRG continue their French campaign on Sunday at Tro Bro Leon.
Results
- Benoît Cosnefroy, UAE Team Emirates-XRG, 4:35:17
- Noa Isidore, Decathlon CMA CGM, same time
- Paul Lapeira, Decathlon CMA CGM, same time
