Mark Cavendish sat down with The Times Luxury in 2026 for a wide-ranging interview at the EssilorLuxottica Switch event in Monaco, and true to form, the most decorated sprinter in Tour de France history made the conversation about more than just cycling. With a record 35 Tour stage wins to his name, Cavendish has spent two decades in the peloton, but his curiosity about what comes next for him and for the sport — was the thread running through the piece.
For the occasion, Cavendish wore the Oakley Meta OW8002, the latest entry in the brand's growing smart eyewear line. The frames, which integrate audio and voice functionality into a classic sport silhouette, suited the setting: a luxury tech showcase perched on the Côte d'Azur, where performance and presentation are expected to coexist. Cavendish paired the OW8002 with a crisp open-neck shirt and tailored trousers, a step away from his on-bike kit but unmistakably in his own lane. A subtle chain bracelet and polished leather sneakers kept the look sharp without drifting into formality.
The Times piece explored how AI-enabled eyewear might reshape professional cycling, from real-time data overlays to safety applications, and Cavendish spoke with the authority of someone who has seen the sport evolve across four Olympic cycles. Characteristically direct, he made clear that technology is only as useful as the athlete who wields it: a perspective that turns a pair of smart glasses into something more than just hardware.
The Oakley Meta OW8002 HSTN is a smart sunglasses model that combines Oakley’s performance-driven design with integrated wearable technology. Crafted from lightweight and durable O Matter™, it offers a sport-oriented silhouette with a secure, close fit. Typically available with Prizm™ or polarized lenses, it provides enhanced visual clarity and sun protection. The frame is engineered for comfort during extended wear while enabling seamless hands-free functionality.
