Cycling Pulse

Alex Baudin, a promising 23-year-old French cyclist, has recently signed with EF Education-EasyPost, a move that is being seen as a significant step for both the rider and the team as they gear up for the 2025 season. This strategic signing reflects the team's commitment to investing in youthful talent, a trend that is becoming increasingly prevalent in professional cycling as teams look to build competitive rosters while managing budget constraints. Baudin enters the EF Education-EasyPost fold as a relatively unknown entity in the cycling world, which adds an element of intrigue to this acquisition. Many teams are now focusing on younger riders who can grow and potentially become stars in the sport. EF Education-EasyPost aims to...

The ProVelo Super League has officially unveiled its inaugural season calendar, marking a pivotal moment in Australian cycling. With the first event set to kick off in January 2025, the league aims to establish itself as a significant player in the competitive cycling landscape, offering structured opportunities for riders to showcase their talents and potentially secure professional contracts. The season will commence with the SA Kick It, scheduled from January 18 to 20, 2025, taking participants on a journey from Melbourne to Warrnambool. This event is not just a race; it’s a statement of intent for the league, setting the tone for a season filled with excitement and challenge. Following closely is the Tour of Tasmania on February...

Birmingham City Council is contemplating implementing a ban on cycling in specific areas of the city centre, a move aimed at enhancing safety amid growing concerns about the increasing number of cyclists sharing space with pedestrians. This proposal particularly targets food and mail delivery cyclists, whose rapid movement has raised alarms among residents and safety officials alike. The council's consideration follows a community safety executive report that underscores the risks associated with cyclists navigating busy pedestrian zones without adequate attention to foot traffic. As part of their strategy, Birmingham City Council is currently engaging in a consultation process to gather feedback from various stakeholders, exploring...

On September 21, 2024, the cycling world witnessed an impressive display of speed and skill as Juan Ayuso of UAE Team Emirates triumphed in the stage 4 time trial of the Tour de Luxembourg. This 15.5-kilometer course, winding through Differdange, proved to be a challenging test for all competitors, but Ayuso emerged victorious, clocking a remarkable time of 19:11. Ayuso’s win is a testament to his growing reputation in professional cycling, particularly in individual time trials, an area where precision and power are crucial. At just 22 years old, he has quickly become one of the most exciting talents on the circuit. His performance in Luxembourg not only showcased his ability to maintain high speeds but also highlighted his tactical...

Franck Bonnamour's recent retirement from professional cycling at the age of 29 marks a poignant chapter in a sport that is no stranger to the complexities of doping allegations and financial pressures. Bonnamour, who gained recognition for his combativity at the Tour de France in 2021 and his win at La Polynormande in 2022, found his promising career cut short not by a lack of talent, but by the burdens of defending himself against doping allegations and the financial strain that ensued. The turbulence surrounding Bonnamour began in January 2024 when irregularities in his biological passport led to a suspension by the UCI. Despite his insistence that he had never used banned substances, the shadow of suspicion loomed large. His team...

The recent incident involving Mathieu van der Poel during the 2024 World Championships has ignited a significant debate within the cycling community, leading the Latvian Cycling Federation to formally protest the UCI's decision not to disqualify the Dutch rider. This situation unfolded during the Elite Men's race in Zurich on September 29, where Van der Poel briefly mounted the pavement in an effort to maneuver past a pinch-point in the peloton, nearly colliding with a spectator. The incident, recorded on video, quickly spread across social media platforms, prompting widespread discussion about safety and rule enforcement in cycling. Under UCI regulations, riding on the pavement is punishable by a fine of up to 1,000 CHF and a...

On November 26, 2024, Saint Piran Pro Cycling made the shocking announcement of the closure of its UCI Continental Team and the Saint Piran WRT Elite Development Team, marking a pivotal moment in the landscape of British cycling. This decision, effective immediately for the 2025 season, leaves the United Kingdom without a men's UCI Continental team for the first time since 2004, a stark reminder of the financial and operational challenges that professional cycling teams are currently facing. The closure follows an extensive strategic review aimed at enhancing opportunities for local cycling talent and increasing the sport's popularity across the UK. However, the realities of a challenging season compounded by negative media attention...

Bradley Wiggins, the former Tour de France winner and an iconic figure in professional cycling, has recently opened up about his financial struggles, revealing that Lance Armstrong is covering the costs of his therapy as he faces bankruptcy claims. The gravity of Wiggins' situation is underscored by the staggering amount of nearly £2 million that is being claimed against his estate, a figure that highlights the precarious nature of finances for some athletes, even those with illustrious careers. Wiggins, who has been a prominent figure in cycling since his Olympic debut in 2004, has encountered significant financial challenges stemming from various business ventures and mismanagement of his image rights. His bankruptcy is reportedly...

Scott has once again raised the bar in the world of lightweight road bikes with the unveiling of the Scott Addict RC, weighing in at an astonishing 5.9 kilograms. Launched on November 26, 2024, this bike has quickly gained a reputation as the lightest road bike in Scott's history, embodying the brand's commitment to innovation and performance. The Addict RC is not just about shedding weight; it also emphasizes rideability and responsiveness, making it an appealing choice for serious cyclists and competitive riders alike. The Addict RC boasts an ultra-light frame weighing only 600 grams in medium size, while the fork comes in at a mere 270 grams. This remarkable weight reduction has been achieved through the use of slender tube...

Sep Vanmarcke's recent health challenges have cast a shadow over the cycling community, highlighting the reality that even elite athletes are not immune to serious medical issues. The former professional cyclist, known for his strong performances in Classics and stage races, was forced to retire in July 2023 after being diagnosed with cardiac arrhythmia. This condition, characterized by an irregular heartbeat, was a significant turning point in his career, pushing him away from the sport that had defined his life for over a decade. After his retirement, Vanmarcke initially transitioned to a team leader position at Israel-Premier Tech. However, in a move that reflects both the personal and professional upheaval he was experiencing, he...

The world of professional cycling has long been marred by doping scandals and an ongoing battle for transparency. Amidst this backdrop, Greg LeMond, a three-time Tour de France champion, has stepped forward with a bold proposal aimed at increasing the sport's integrity. In a recent interview on November 30, 2024, LeMond suggested that the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) should mandate the biannual release of riders' VO2 max and haematocrit levels. This initiative, he argues, could serve as a crucial tool for monitoring athletes' physiological conditions and ultimately detecting potential doping practices. LeMond's reasoning is grounded in the need to eliminate speculation surrounding riders' performances. Historically, the cycling...

The introduction of the Gino Mäder Prize by Vélo d'Or marks a pivotal moment in the cycling world, blending athletic excellence with a commitment to social responsibility. Established in 1992, the Vélo d'Or has long celebrated the cream of the crop in professional cycling, but this new award elevates the conversation by focusing on the impact athletes can have beyond their sport. The prize honors the legacy of Gino Mäder, a talented Swiss cyclist whose life was tragically cut short during the 2023 Tour de Suisse. Mäder was not just a formidable climber for Bahrain Victorious; he was also a passionate advocate for social and environmental causes. Known for his philanthropy, Mäder regularly donated a portion of his earnings to charities...

Larry Warbasse, an American professional cyclist, is looking to continue his journey in the WorldTour for the upcoming 2025 season and beyond. Known for his strong work ethic and commitment to team dynamics, Warbasse's future in professional cycling hangs in the balance as he navigates the complexities of contract negotiations. As of October 11, 2024, Warbasse finds himself without a confirmed contract for the 2025 season. Currently, he is exploring options and seeking a new team for the upcoming year. This uncertainty comes after a fruitful career that has seen him compete in the WorldTour peloton since 2012. Throughout his decade-long career, he has established himself as a reliable domestique and a vital asset to his team, Decathlon...