Mercier (cycling team)

Mercier was a French professional cycling team that existed from 1935 to 1984. It is best known for its long and successful association with cyclist Raymond Poulidor, who rode for the team from 1960 until his retirement in 1977.

The team was sponsored by the Mercier bicycle company, a French manufacturer based in Saint-Étienne. During its history, Mercier competed in major cycling events including the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a España, and the classics.

Beyond Poulidor, other notable riders who rode for Mercier included Antonin Magne, Louis Bobet, Rik Van Looy (briefly), and Joop Zoetemelk in his early career. The team achieved numerous victories throughout its existence, contributing significantly to the history of professional cycling. The distinctive magenta (often referred to as pink) jersey of the Mercier team is iconic in cycling history, often associated with the "eternal second" image of Poulidor, who while immensely popular, never won the Tour de France.