AG2R leader Romain Bardet has apologised to fans after teammate Lloyd Mondory tested positive earlier this week for EPO, after results from a test taken on February 17.

“I have no words strong enough to condemn this type of conduct that jeopardises all efforts by our team and our bodies to lend credibility to our practice,” Bardet wrote on his Facebook page.

“It is a new big blow for the majority of the squad that should not have to answer for the mistakes of a few individuals."

“I am deeply sorry for you, lovers of cycling,” he added. “We must now, with solidarity further strengthened, work to uphold our vision of cycling. That of a healthy sport, exemplary and inspiring especially for the younger generation.”

24-year-old Bardet is part of a new generation of French cyclists who the nation hope can win the Tour de France soon. The young man is used to pressure, but this will not be the type of attention he was hoping to get at Paris-Nice. He will try to win tomorrow’s stage to put him in a good position to win the GC.