Meeting Jérôme Coppel: A Champion in the Peloton

From Cross-Country Skiing to Elite Cycling

Jérôme Coppel hasn't always ridden on two wheels. Before spending a decade as a professional cyclist, he spent ten years on skis as an elite cross-country skier.
"To prepare for the ski season, we did a lot of cycling. I caught the racing bug in 2002 and 2003, before switching entirely to cycling in 2004."
Sport runs in the Coppel veins; it's a family affair: his father was already an elite cyclist back in the late '70s.

An Impressive Track Record

French Time Trial Champion in the Junior, Under-23, and Elite categories, bronze medalist at the World Championships, 13th overall in the 2011 Tour de France…
During his ten years in the pro peloton, Jérôme also racked up victories at the Étoile de Bessèges, the Tour du Doubs, the Vuelta a Murcia, and the Rhône-Alpes Isère Tour. And with six Tour de France finishes under his belt, he knows exactly what pacing an effort is all about.

Still at the Heart of Cycling

Today, Jérôme shares his passion through his indoor cycling training centers, PowerWatts Switzerland, and his coaching school, the PT Coaching Academy.
"What drives me is staying fit and riding with the members, sharing technical advice, and helping them push their limits."
At the same time, he trains endurance sports coaches and works as a consultant for RMC Sport, commentating on major cycling races.

Transju’Cyclo Ambassador

While cycling is second nature to him, Jérôme has also tackled the Transju’… cross-country ski style, back in 2023!
What convinced him to become an ambassador for the Transju’Cyclo? "Sharing my experience on home turf that I know by heart, alongside an exceptional event crew."
On race day, he will be right out on the course giving technical, physical, and nutritional tips to help everyone live the ultimate adventure. And this year, you'll catch him riding the 70 km course.

Jérôme's Top Tips for Participants

👉 Before the race: Train on the distance and elevation profile of the event at least once a week, backed up by one or two targeted workouts.

👉 On race day: Stay relaxed, keep well hydrated, start fueling early, and meter your effort right from the start line.

👉 After the finish line: Rehydrate, refuel, and why not indulge in a massage or some electrostimulation to supercharge your recovery.

La Transju’, Much More Than Just a Race

For Jérôme, "La Transju’ is pure legend." Originally rooted in cross-country skiing, the event has expanded its horizons into trail running and cycling. "It stands for deep know-how, flawless expertise, and an atmosphere that's both warmly welcoming and serious about sports."
And for anyone still on the fence about signing up: "The Transju’Cyclo is made for everyone, with tailored routes and even the chance to shorten your loop if your legs aren't feeling it on the day. You'll head home with a huge smile and a mind full of unforgettable memories!"