Published on : 09/29/2026
During the lunch break, the Cofidis team takes a moment to connect with the people who make the team what it is. With "A l'abri du vent" (Sheltered from the Wind), we put racing aside for a few minutes to listen and take our time. Today, let’s meet Yaël Joalland.
Tell me about your journey before becoming a professional cyclist.
Before cycling, I dabbled in athletics and judo. Cycling came quite naturally to me, as my father has always ridden a lot and still does today just like my brother. I wanted to follow in their footsteps. I started out in the 'minimes' category and loved it right away. I had been going to watch races from the roadside since I was very young, so cycling was part of my everyday life. Naturally, it made me want to get involved.
Did you get hooked right away?
Yes, directly. I enjoyed cyclo-cross just as much as road racing, and my progression was fairly steady. That’s how I managed to climb the ranks step by step.
At what point did you realize that cycling would be more than just a passion?
Quite honestly, right from the start. As soon as I got my first racing license, I told myself I wanted to make a career out of it and dedicate my life to cycling.
Was there anyone who inspired you on your journey?
When I started at US Pontchâteau, Bryan was there, right? He was a professional back then. When we were cadets and juniors, he was something of an idol to us. We started training on the track with him; seeing him on TV really made me want to do it too. And then, given my results as a cadet, I told myself it might actually be possible.
What is the most significant moment of your career the one that shaped you as a runner?
My early races as a junior with US Pontchâteau really shaped me. My two-year stint with CC Etupes alongside Boris Zimine was formative, too; I learned a great deal from him. But the most significant and most difficult moment was my crash early in the 2024 season at the Grand Prix de la Marseillaise. I had a bad fall, and at that point, I genuinely wondered if my cycling career was over. Above all, I was grateful to be alive and to still have both my legs. It completely changed my perspective on my career.
Did you ultimately come back stronger after that accident?
Yes. I put in a huge amount of work off the bike, particularly with the physios, and I think that allowed me to come back stronger, both physically and mentally.
Do you have a ritual or a piece of music to motivate yourself before a race?
There wasn’t really any specific ritual. With the Nantes team, we’d often listen to pretty aggressive rap music to get fired up before races.
Do you have a passion outside of cycling?
I really love music. I’ve also done quite a bit of fishing, even though it’s more difficult now that I’m in Nice. I also really enjoy hiking and nature in general.
What are your favorite places to train?
I live in Nice, and the area is incredible for training. One of my favorite mountain passes is the Col d’Èze. The view is magnificent, and with the almost constant good weather, it’s a real pleasure.
Do the people around you give you a nickname?
People often call me Yaya. My father also used to call me "Minuscule" when I was younger, because I was tiny and very skinny. It’s remained a little family memory.