The world of cycling united for the funeral of Nicolas Portal

At the time of the second stage of Paris - Nice, part of the cycling world was gathered in Auch cathedral for the funeral of Nicolas Portal. The sports director of training Ineos died, at 40, of a heart attack Tuesday, March 3.

In a full cathedral to salute the memory of the child of the Gers, Christian Prudhomme, director of the Tour de France, was present to pay tribute to the one who led Christopher Froome to his successes on the Grande Boucle (2013, 2015, 2016, 2017), then Geraint Thomas (2018) and finally Egan Bernal (2019). The latter two were also present in Auch, as was Dave Brailsford, the manager of the British team who had recruited and trusted Portal at the start of the Sky team.

The world of #cycling pays tribute to Nicolas #Portal. The funeral ceremony begins in Auch Cathedral, with the full @TeamINEOS, including the winners of the last two Tours de France: @Eganbernal and @ GeraintThomas86. # Fbsport pic.twitter.com/fr30yB7Ahu

"I will run for his memory"

Since the news of the death of the former runner of the AG2R team, reactions have multiplied to greet an endearing and unanimous personality. Christopher Froome, quadruple winner of the Tour, has published a word on social networks.

"In addition to the great friend, father and husband that Nico was, I don't think people realize how great his influence has been on our team's results over the years. It is completely irreplaceable, to the point that it is difficult to imagine the rest. He accompanied me through difficult times, helped me to get up whenever I doubted myself, and he was always by my side to encourage me. He leaves a phenomenal legacy. I will run for his memory and I will do everything I can to honor him and all he has taught me. "

The AG2R team does not forget Nicolas Portal. His face is glued to the bus and cars during Paris-Nice. Tribute pic.twitter.com/dbq8s3AJWi

As reported by France Bleu Occitanie, the mayor of Auch Christian Laprébende and the president of the departmental council of Gers, Philippe Martin were also present.

The Ineos team withdrew from the races in which it was engaged until the Tour of Catalonia on March 23.