Bonne route, Max !
At 37, Maxime Marotte has just wrapped up a remarkable career in cross-country mountain biking, marked by 27 World Cup podiums, two French Champion titles, and an Olympic 4th place.
A loyal Julbo athlete for several years, he contributed to the development of many models.
How long did it really last? If we stick to the cold, flavorless numbers: 11'40''.
But in truth, this final lap of Maxime Marotte's racing career lasted much longer.
What was on his mind in those last meters?
Maybe the day in 2004 when his childlike face beamed on the Junior World Championships podium? Or perhaps that moment in 2008 when he couldn't hold back tears after becoming the French Under-23 Champion for the first time.
We remember him lying on the ground, crying in happiness after three painful years of learning.
That day perhaps marked the true takeoff of the Alsatian's career, who would go on to become a key figure in French and global mountain biking for over fifteen years. Looking back, Maxime can take pride in two French elite titles in Olympic cross-country, a plethora of World Cup podiums, and occasionally some frustrations. Like that day in April 2022 in Brazil, when he came tantalizingly close to victory but was overtaken by mere centimeters at the finish line. Six years earlier, also in Brazil at Rio, he crossed the line of his only Olympic Games in 4th place.
Maxime is also the story of a man of values, deeply attached to Julbo
Maxime has greatly contributed to the evolution of the Rush, Fury, Density, and Frequency products. Thanks to his knowledge of the field, Julbo was able to support some of the best athletes in the paddock »
While Maxime's athletic career may be coming to an end, his story with mountain biking is not over. Fiercely attached to his sport, the Savoyard is already working on tomorrow.
Congratulations Maxime on this beautiful adventure by your side. Thank you for the emotions. And for your trust.
