The AG2R CITROËN U19 junior team does not scout for talent; it recruits based on applications. The recruitment process is open to all, and each year the team reviews applications from more than 200 candidates from France and abroad.
Application period: April–June
Recruitment is primarily aimed at cadets 2, to join the junior 1* team.
Applications must be submitted via the website. www.ag2rcitroenu19team.com, from April to July each year.
*It is also possible to apply as a Cadet 1 to join the Cadet 2 team. In this case, the cadet will not participate in races but will benefit from all the support provided by the team to prepare for their entry the following year.
Selection criteria
There are numerous selection criteria, and the team favours well-rounded and comprehensive profiles:
- Sports results
- Power values
- The candidate's motivations and project development
- The quality of the dual project: cycling + study/work
A small clarification: when joining the U19 team, junior riders must commit to remaining with their original club for as long as they are part of the structure (so as not to drain talent from smaller clubs).
Physical tests
This is an additional, optional step. Candidates can perform a field self-test using a power sensor and submit it to complete their application.
Talent scouting camp: August
Eight candidates are selected to participate in the team's mountain training camp in the Alps. This is also an opportunity for a full medical examination.
Admissions: September
In September, final admissions are announced and new recruits join the team at the end of October.
They then benefit from all the advantages of the structure:
- 360° support: coach, training programmes, nutrition and strategy training.
- Equipment: 2 bikes, 1 time trial bike, as well as all the professional team's equipment (clothing, helmets, glasses, speedometers, power meters, etc.)
- Participation in international races throughout Europe with team and staff
- Proximity to professional cyclists (particularly those who have come through the training programme) and the World Tour team
What now?
If this article has convinced you that the AG2R CITROËN U19 team is right for you, you can apply here.
If you are already a junior, you can also apply to become a guest rider in a UCI junior race international (the team travels abroad to 9 countries each year).
