In 2021, Padun won Stages 7 and 8 of the Critérium du Dauphiné, after spending each day in the breakaway, while also collecting enough points to win the mountains classification.[9] By dropping his companions in the breakaway and holding off the group of favorites on two consecutive days, these wins sparked sceptic commentary from riders and staff of other teams.[10] The French newspaper Le Parisien published quotes calling his performance "an absolute disgrace" and that it "reminds us of the dirty 2000s".[11] Despite his strong performance, he was not nominated for the Tour de France by his team, nor was he taken to the Men's individual road race at the delayed 2020 Summer Olympics by his federation, to the surprise of observers. In an interview with L'Équipe, he defended himself against doping suspicions, citing weight problems as reason for his inconsistent performances.[12][13]
EF Education–EasyPost (since 2022)
For the 2022 season, he signed a contract at EF Education–EasyPost. Team manager Jonathan Vaughters emphasised his trust in Padun, and justified it with "physiological tests" and "instinct".[14] In February, Padun won stage 4 of O Gran Camiño, his first top ten in a time trial against an international field.[15]
Major results
2014
1st Time trial, National Junior Road Championships
