'You can feel the difference this year' - After being relegated from the WorldTour, Cofidis' new strategy for points is paying off

Cofidis, relegated from the WorldTour, has evidently found success with its revised strategy focusing on ProSeries and lower-tier races. The French squad, under the guidance of manager Cédric Vasseur, has accumulated a significant haul of UCI points this season, a direct result of prioritizing wins and high placings in events where their roster can genuinely contend. This tactical shift has seen them secure victories and consistent top-10s in races like the Tour of Turkey and various French Cup events, effectively leveraging their strengths outside the WorldTour calendar.

This pivot is crucial for Cofidis, whose WorldTour license was revoked last season due to insufficient UCI points, a stark reminder of the unforgiving promotion/relegation system. Their current performance not only demonstrates a pragmatic response to that setback but also highlights a broader trend where teams are forced to strategically allocate resources to secure their future. By eschewing the often-futile pursuit of minor points in top-tier races, Cofidis has optimized their chances, proving that sometimes, taking a step back in race prestige can lead to a giant leap forward in the rankings.

Ultimately, Cofidis' current trajectory is less about a sudden surge in talent and more a masterclass in understanding the UCI points system. It's a calculated gamble that, for now, appears to be paying dividends, proving that sometimes, you just need to pick your battles wisely.