Gladys Begins a New Adventure with AG Insurance - Soudal
Gladys' passion for cycling started early, inspired by her father's love for the sport. Now, as she joins AG Insurance - Soudal, she reflects on her journey, her goals, and the motivation her family continues to provide.
My passion for cycling was practically instilled in me from a young age. Both my sister and my father were avid cyclists, and I started going to their races to cheer them on from an early age. When I was six, I started cycling myself. The person who inspired me the most was undoubtedly my father, whom I sadly lost 15 years ago. His extraordinary mental strength has always been a huge source of inspiration for me.
After a big race, pizza is my go-to meal. During the race, nothing beats a good al dente pasta. As for sweets, I love small homemade cookies or a nice ice cream (but ice cream is reserved for when I'm home, walking around Nice, haha).
Besides cycling, I really enjoy shopping and walking around the city. But in the summer, afternoons at the beach or by the pool are the absolute best.
When it comes to favorite destinations for training or vacation, it’s truly a privilege to live in Nice and be able to cycle here. The roads are fantastic! In the summer, there are some tourists, but that actually gives me the opportunity to discover new, quieter routes. Spain is also a beautiful "playground" for training. But if I really had to choose, I’d go for sunny destinations where I can relax and do nothing for a few days.
Before or after an important race, I love receiving a message from my husband; it always puts me in a good mood. Other than that, I don’t have any fixed rituals, except for my stretching routine.
I'm very open when it comes to music before a race, but there's one song I always have to listen to: "La vie est belle" by Indochine. That song makes me feel like my father is with me. I love listening to songs whose lyrics have a meaningful connection to what I'm about to do. That’s why I often prefer French songs. And when I’ve had enough of French music, I switch to something that gives me energy. Ultimately, I listen to songs that make me feel like I can conquer the world (haha).
What attracted me to AG Insurance - Soudal is that I’ve seen the team grow over the past few years. I love their offensive approach and strong team spirit. Many riders make great progress with this team. The structure and qualified staff also really appeal to me.
Within the team, I hope to reach a level where I can support the team leaders in major races and help the younger riders develop further.
My personal goals for the 2025 season are to win again, and of course, to capture the French national championship in the Wolfpack jersey! But I’d also love to win a race in Flanders.
I expect to grow as a rider within AG Insurance - Soudal by discovering a new culture within a Belgian team that shares a similar vision of cycling as I do and is full of talented riders. I’m sure I’ll rediscover my aggressive racing style. The team will also help me develop a stronger mental side, which has been a weaker point for me up until now.
I think the transition to the new team will happen naturally, and I can’t wait to meet my new teammates.