Sunderland's French stars are backing a 320-mile charity cycle ride across their homeland this summer.
The Atlantic to Mediterranean Challenge, led by Black Cats legend Marco Gabbiadini, will see a team of up to 50 cyclists saddle up to raise funds for Foundation of Light and their life-changing work across the North East, with Younes Kaboul and Yann M'Vila believing the charity have made the perfect choice in selecting France for this year's ride.
"I don't think Foundation of Light could have chosen a better country for the 2016 ride," said midfielder M'Vila. "France is very beautiful, especially in the summer, and the cyclists will enjoy some amazing scenery as they pass through its countryside, vineyards and towns."
The Atlantic to Mediterranean Challenge will begin on the 4th June in Arcachon in the South of France, ending four gruelling but rewarding days later in Gruissan.
One of the Foundation's most popular fundraising events, the international cycle challenges are known for being physically testing and the fantastic memories they create.
"The Foundation's work is vital to the North East and those taking part in the challenge will help make a real difference to local lives," added defender Kaboul who recently attended the Foundation's Top Scorer Awards and met some of the people who have benefitted from the charity's work.
"From what I've heard about the challenge there's a great team atmosphere and I'm sure everyone will be in high spirits, encouraging their team mates throughout and sharing in each other's success."
To take up the challenge, call Jemma Garrett on 0191 5515191 or email jemma.garrett@foundationoflight.co.uk.
Previous Cycle Challenges have seen riders travel over 1,000 miles from Dublin to Sunderland and across Italy, raising more than £100,000 to help fund Foundation of Light's community projects across the North East.
The 2016 challenge is sponsored by Grafton Group plc, and supported by logistics experts OSE, Springfield and Kitwave.
