The second day of the 41st Roc d’Azur CIC was nothing short of intense. Mountain biking, of course—the very DNA of the Roc d’Azur CIC—but also trail running, with the Roc Trail Estérel (29 and 50 km) set against the stunning backdrop of the Estérel Massif, and the opening of the Exhibitor Village, bustling with stands and entertainment.
On the MTB side, Emeric Turcat (38) successfully defended the Roc Masters title he claimed last year—just enough time to savor the win before heading to Limburg (Netherlands) this Friday to compete in the Gravel World Championships. Among the women, victory went to Sophie Giovane. Another highlight of the day was the Roc Tandems, one of the few remaining tandem events in France, which crowned Julien Saussac (pilot) and Loïc Ladreyt.
“It’s our only tandem race of the year,” the two riders from Ardèche shared. “We just did a short ride a few days ago to dust off the bike. It’s great that the organizers are keeping this event alive.”
On the trail running side, it was a first appearance at the Roc Trail Estérel for Yoann Stuck, one of France’s top trail runners (5th at the 2024 Marathon des Sables, winner of the 2025 UTMB MCC). Stuck dominated the race in 4h16’58’’.
“Honestly, I’m really happy to win a race at the Roc d’Azur CIC,” he said. “I’m passionate about cycling, and the Roc means a lot to me. With its huge expo, it’s for cyclists what the UTMB is for trail runners! It’s awesome to see the event opening up to other sports. Plus, the course was incredible—with wild landscapes and sea views. The limited marking, for environmental reasons, forced us to stay focused—it really brought us back to the roots of trail running. I loved that.”
Among the women, Maryon Pennec took the win in 6h13’59’’.
This Friday, the Škoda Roc Marathon will be the day’s main event (also the third stage of the Delta Plus Roc Trophy). With its 104 km and 2,900 meters of elevation gain, it promises an intense battle at the front and a true challenge for amateur riders tackling the trails of the Maures Massif. Gravel and recreational riders will also have plenty to enjoy in the Estérel with the Canyon Rando Gravel Estérel (70.4 km).
As tradition dictates, the day will wrap up in the heart of old Fréjus with the always spectacular CIC Roc Ruelles and Kids Roc Ruelles—guaranteeing thrills and a fiery atmosphere.
