French Cycling Federation

The Alliance of Technology and Performance

ALTEN has partnered with the French Cycling Federation (FFC) to support French athletes in reaching the highest levels of performance. This collaboration is built on a shared belief: technological innovation can transform sport. By combining scientific expertise, data analysis, and a passion for cycling, ALTEN and the FFC are optimising every detail—from riders’ equipment to their race strategies. The goal is clear: to provide French cyclists with the tools they need to excel on the international stage, while pushing the boundaries of technological research and development.

Innovation as a Performance Driver

A major focus of this partnership is the use of 3D scans conducted in the LAAS-CNRS laboratories. These scans create dynamic mannequins that accurately replicate cyclists’ positions on their bikes. Using these models, ALTEN and FFC teams analyse and optimise athletes’ postures to reduce aerodynamic drag. This approach also enables the design of custom helmets and extensions, which are tested in digital wind tunnels before validating in real-world conditions. Every detail matters, as even a minor reduction in air resistance can make the difference between a medal and an honourable finish.

Smart Race Strategy

ALTEN develops optimisation algorithms that analyse every segment of a race course, taking into account factors such as wind, elevation, and weather conditions. These algorithms help determine:

The optimal power output at every moment of the race

The most suitable gear ratios

Personalised effort management, communicated in real time to riders via a connected helmet

This approach has already proven successful, as demonstrated by Audrey Cordon-Ragot’s victory at the 2022 European Championships. With a 3-second lead over her closest competitor, this performance highlights the tangible impact of these innovations on the ground.

Data Analysis and Machine Learning

The Reco Human project, developed by ALTEN Labs, uses computer vision and machine learning to analyse race videos. This technology studies the degradation of cyclists’ posture under exertion and quantifies its impact on speed. Athlete feedback is integrated to refine models and provide real-time corrections.

Sébastien Ricciardi, Sports Science Project Manager at ALTEN, explains: “Knowing the required efforts in advance allows us to adapt training and perform optimally in every power zone.” This data-driven approach is a major asset for athletes, offering unparalleled precision in race preparation.

Technologies Transferable to Industry

The innovations developed for cycling extend beyond the world of sport, finding practical applications in other sectors and demonstrating the versatility of ALTEN’s expertise: