Stéphane Goubert, sports director of AG2R for twelve years, is leaving the French team after twenty years of joint adventure.
In 2024, AG2R saw its two most loyal characters leave the adventure. After the forced departure of the historic boss, Vincent Lavenu, it is the turn of Stéphane Goubert to say stop. Unlike the first, it was the 54-year-old from Montpellier who chose to stop.
“After spending 6 seasons as a rider then 13 as a sports director within our team, we sincerely thank you for all your commitment and professionalism over all these years.
We wish you the best for the future,” wrote a press release from the team this Tuesday, December 31.
Entering a new era since the arrival of Decathlon and the new general director Dominique Serieys (originally from Ganges) this year, the French team has taken a completely different turn. Which cost Lavenu's head, and probably the hasty departure of Goubert.
In 2024, Decathlon-AG2R achieved a record season with 30 victories. Its leader Ben O'Connor showed the way on the Grand Tours with a 4th place overall in the Giro and a 2nd in the Vuelta. In the Tour of Spain, he wore the red jersey for thirteen days. But the 29-year-old Australian has committed to Jayco Alula in 2025, leaving a void among general riders.
Uncertain future
“Gouby”, AG2R rider between 2004 and 2009, notably finished 14th in the Tour de France for his last year. Since 2012, he has been in management, as sports director.
This season, Stéphane Goubert officiated at the Giro and the Vuelta. Two successful races for the French team.
The future of Montpellier is still unknown. Nothing has leaked regarding a possible reconversion or a rebound in another team.
France
