Max Alran stunned by global reaction to first World Cup win

Max Alran’s first elite World Cup victory has given downhill mountain biking an unusual burst of attention, but the 19-year-old Frenchman has also highlighted the risks created by celebrations around the finish. He said the reaction was far bigger than he understood in the moment and described the public response as extraordinary.

Alran won on Saturday at Les Gets in Haute-Savoie, securing his first World Cup success in his debut elite season. The 2025 junior world champion was competing at home when spectators moved into the finish area as he crossed the line, creating images that spread internationally.

The moment reached French President Emmanuel Macron, who shared the images on social media. British cyclist Thomas Pidcock also reacted, saying he wished he were French so he could experience an atmosphere like that. Alran received messages for two days afterwards and admitted he is not used to being the centre of attention. He also believes the wider publicity helps riders, teams and sponsors, while bringing greater focus to a sport that does not receive that level of exposure at every venue.

Despite appreciating the celebration, Alran said such a scene could become a long-term safety problem for riders, staff and photographers. He felt the situation at Les Gets ended well, but recognised that a similar rush could have produced more serious consequences.