The cycling community is in mourning following the sudden death of former professional cyclist Damien Girard at the age of 24. His amateur club, Team Estérel Côte d’Azur, announced the tragic news, which French media outlets confirmed on September 29, 2026. No cause of death has been made public.
Born in Tours, France, on December 14, 2001, Girard developed a deep passion for cycling at a young age. He began his competitive journey with UC Vendôme. He then raced as a junior for Team Peltrax-CS Dammarie-lès-Lys, where he quickly caught the attention of talent scouts. In 2018, he secured a memorable victory by winning the opening stage of La Cantonale as a junior.
Professional Career Highlights with Nice Métropole Côte d’Azur
Following his early successes, Girard advanced to the under-23 category, riding for CC Nogent-sur-Oise from 2020 to 2022. During this stint, his victory at the 2022 Tour Nivernais Morvan solidified his reputation as a promising climber. This success earned him a professional contract with the continental team Nice Métropole Côte d’Azur.
Girard competed for Nice Métropole Côte d’Azur from 2023 through 2025. During his tenure in the professional ranks, he achieved several notable milestones:
- 2024: Secured a 10th-place finish at the Grand Prix La Marseillaise.
- 2024: Claimed an impressive stage victory at the Tour du Maroc.
- 2025: Won the prestigious mountains classification at the Tour de La Provence, finishing 43rd overall.
- 2025: Finished 17th at the challenging Étoile de Bessèges.
His final professional race took place in August 2025 at the Tour de l’Ain. After Nice Métropole Côte d’Azur chose not to retain him for the following season, Girard stepped away from the top tier of professional racing. At the start of 2026, he joined the Var-based amateur club Team Estérel Côte d’Azur to continue enjoying the sport on a local level.
Tributes Flow for a Rider Who Loved Cycling
Team Estérel Côte d’Azur released an emotional statement on social media following the news, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of their teammate and friend.
“C’est avec le cœur lourd et une profonde tristesse que nous vous annonçons la disparition brutale de notre ami et licencié Damien Girard. (…) Nous retiendrons de Damien l’image d’un ami et coureur amoureux du vélo,” the team shared, offering heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
Fans, former teammates, and cycling organizations across France have continued to share tributes. They remember Girard as a dedicated competitor and a warm presence within the peloton. Authorities have released no further details regarding the sudden tragedy, leaving the sports community to honor the memory of a young talent taken far too soon.
