Bahrain Victorious Set for Challenging 2026 Paris–Nice Campaign

“Paris–Nice is a special race for me — it was my first win in Bahrain colours last year.”
— Lenny Martinez

The Paris–Nice 2026 will take place from 8 to 15 March, with Bahrain Victorious ready to take on the demanding route that stretches nearly 1,200 kilometres across France.

With a mix of flat stages, a crucial team time trial, and challenging mountain finishes, the race is expected to gradually shape the general classification before reaching a decisive climax in the hills surrounding Nice.

Lenny Martinez Leads the General Classification Charge

Young climber Lenny Martinez will spearhead Bahrain Victorious’ ambitions for the general classification.

The opening stages in northern France are often influenced by wind conditions and positioning, making teamwork and organisation essential before the race reaches more selective terrain.

Martinez reflected on his connection with the race:

“I like Paris–Nice. It’s a special race for me — it was my first win in Bahrain colours last year, and I have good memories from that moment.”

Crucial Team Time Trial to Shape the Race

One of the key stages comes early in the race with a 23.4 km team time trial on Stage 3.

This stage is expected to create the first significant time gaps among contenders.

Why the team time trial matters:

Requires perfect coordination between all seven riders
Can create early advantages in the general classification
Sets the foundation for the second half of the race

A strong performance here could place Bahrain Victorious in an excellent position heading into the mountain stages.

Mountain Stages Bring the Real Test

From Stage 4 onwards, the race profile becomes far more demanding.

Two climbs are expected to play a decisive role:

Uchon – An uphill finish that will test the overall contenders early
Auron – A summit finish later in the week that could determine the race winner

Bahrain Victorious has previously performed strongly on the climb to Auron and will aim to be among the leading teams when the race reaches this critical point.

Martinez added:

“The course suits me well with some punchy finishes and hard climbs. There is strong competition this year, so it will be interesting to see where my form stands.”

Sprint Opportunities Early in the Week

While Martinez targets the general classification, the team will also chase stage victories.

Phil Bauhaus will focus on the early sprint stages, supported by teammates:

Robert Stannard
Mathijs Paasschens

Meanwhile, experienced riders will focus on protecting the team leader in difficult race situations.

Support for Martinez includes:

Nikias Arndt
Kamil Gradek

Their role will be crucial in shielding Martinez from crosswinds and maintaining strong positioning in the peloton.

Team Strategy and Experience

Sports Director Roman Kreuziger believes the squad has the right balance to perform well throughout the week.

“We come to Paris–Nice with a very balanced team. The early flat stages require organisation and wind management, while the team time trial sets the stage for the second half of the race. Lenny is in excellent form, and Damiano Caruso’s experience will be key in positioning him at decisive moments.”

New Finale Route in Nice

This year’s race will conclude slightly differently. Due to local elections in France, the final stage will not finish on the famous Promenade des Anglais.

Instead, organisers have introduced a revised finishing circuit around Nice, featuring additional climbs designed to challenge the riders before the final sprint to the line.