With Marco Pantani's earring on his left earlobe as he stood on the highest step of the Olympic podium, he now wants to do more: Emilien Jacquelin is putting aside the narrow skis of a biathlete and launching into a new adventure in cycling itself.

At 30 years old, Jacquelin is realizing a dream and will race on a bicycle wearing the colors of Decathlon CMA CGM Development. Cycling has always been a passion for Emilien, and for the next six months, the sport of two wheels will be his home.

For several weeks now, Emilien had hinted that his future was uncertain in "his" discipline, but the goal of the 2030 Olympic Games at home remains as such, as the interested party explained today to RMC Sport.

«It's an enormous challenge that I'm taking on with enthusiasm, curiosity, and humility, realizing how fortunate I am to have this opportunity. It's a somewhat crazy project, I know, but an idea I've been cultivating for several years and biathlon enthusiasts have known about it for some time. Now I have this chance to test myself, to prove to myself in another sport that I'm capable of achieving good results, and it's also about trying to realize one of my childhood dreams».

And further: «What will I do with biathlon? This cycling challenge is a new test, but I don't believe my story with biathlon is over. The 2030 Games, as I've already said and continue to believe, are an objective; I want to try to become Olympic champion in France, in front of my own people, but I also know that in some aspects of biathlon I've reached my limits, and this opportunity excites me and motivates me to push beyond every day».

It's still too early to talk about competitive debut, but one thing is certain: after the Olympic achievements that made the world aware of his love for Pantani, Jacquelin will be able to count on the support of many enthusiasts who have and will always have Marco in their hearts.