Published on : 10/29/2025
A former professional rider, he was known as a sprinter-puncheur and an exceptional teammate. As a sports director, his skills and passion are widely praised by his peers. Now, after eleven years in the role, Sébastien Hinault joins Team Cofidis, ready to pass on his determination to the riders.
He was one of the defining faces of his era. For eighteen seasons, Sébastien Hinault competed at the highest level of world cycling as a professional. His career allowed him to race in all the major competitions and ride alongside great champions such as Stuart O’Grady and Thor Hushovd. He also claimed 15 victories, including a team time trial win at the Tour de France in 2001 and a stage victory at the Vuelta in Zaragoza (10th stage, 2008).
“This sport is my whole life.”
But for someone who defines himself as a “sprinter-puncheur,” the classics have always held a special place. Throughout his career, he took part in 41 of them including 14 editions of Paris-Roubaix! In the “Hell of the North,” he even made it into the top 10 once (9th in 2010). Sébastien often mentions his fondness for Flemish races and the warm-hearted people of Northern France when explaining his motivation to join Cofidis.
A sports director for the past 11 years, he held that position until the end of this season with Arkéa – B&B Hôtels. At Cofidis, Sébastien’s main goal is to “share his passion” for cycling. “This sport is my whole life,” he says. “I really want to pass on that joy to the riders and help them understand what a real privilege it is.”
Within the team, he’ll be reunited with Raphaël Jeune “we’ve known each other for thirty years” as well as many riders and staff members he has worked with over the years. “I immediately felt very welcome,” he concludes. “I’m already looking forward to next season!”
THEY SAID
Sébastien Hinault:
“I find the Cofidis project very interesting. It’s a high-level team that focuses on long-term growth, supported by a historic sponsor. As someone who loves the Flemish classics and Paris-Roubaix, I really identify with the team’s DNA! What I enjoy most is sharing my passion and the daily joy I find in this sport. Cycling is my whole life: I spent 18 years as a professional rider and then 11 years as a sports director. I know it’s not the easiest sport, but it’s definitely the most beautiful one!”
Raphaël Jeune, General Manager:
“It’s a real pleasure to welcome Sébastien Hinault to Cofidis. His passion for cycling shown throughout his career as both a rider and a sports director speaks for itself. Sébastien is a true enthusiast, especially when it comes to the Belgian classics. He loves those kinds of races where you have to give everything you’ve got and that’s perfect, because it reflects the very DNA of our team. That’s his favorite playground, where he’ll be able to help make Team Cofidis shine. I’m sure he’ll bring his own special touch to help our riders excel. Welcome to Cofidis, Sébastien!”