Pro-Cycling Transfers for 2025

by Pablo Raya

The 2024 cycling season concluded last October with the Tour of Guangxi and the monument "Il Lombardia." With the conclusion of these races, the customary transfer period began, bringing a flurry of news about rider team changes and rumors. This year has been no exception, with many unexpected moves captivating cycling fans. Some of these transfers could significantly shape the future of the sport.

VISMA|LEASE A BIKE

The first major signing was that of British rider Simon Yates, who joins VISMA|LEASE A BIKE. Yates arrives at the Dutch team aiming to assist team leader and two-time Tour de France winner Jonas Vingegaard in the mountains. Yates' experience and climbing prowess will also provide him opportunities to lead in other races, showcasing the talent that earned him the Vuelta a España title in 2018.

In addition to Yates, the team signed Victor Campenaerts, a superb time trialist from Lotto Dstny. Campenaerts will be crucial in the Grand Tours, supporting Vingegaard during flat stages while also targeting individual results in time trials. Additionally, Dan McLay, a seasoned lead-out man, joins the team to bolster their sprint train, providing critical support for riders like Olav Kooij.

TEAM JAYCO ALULA

Another important signing is Australian rider Ben O'Connor, who joins TEAM JAYCO ALULA to fill the leadership void left by Simon Yates' departure. O'Connor had a standout 2024 season, including podium finishes in Grand Tours, a stage win, and a runner-up finish at the World Championships in Zurich. His versatility makes him a valuable asset for the Australian team as they aim for success in both stage races and Classics.

The team has also added Jasha Sütterlin, who will play a key domestique role, and Alan Hatherly, the reigning XCO mountain bike world champion. Hatherly’s transition to road cycling marks an exciting development, as he aims to balance his off-road prowess with his new role on the road.

Red Bull-BORA-Hansgrohe

Red Bull-BORA-Hansgrohe has bolstered its roster with the signing of Belgian talent Maxim Van Gils, who had a breakout 2024 season with podium finishes at La Flèche Wallonne and Strade Bianche. Van Gils is expected to fill the gap left by departing riders like Lennard Kämna, Bob Jungels, and Emanuel Buchmann. Alongside these changes, the team has gained new financial backing from Red Bull, positioning them to become a dominant force in the peloton.

Other notable additions include Oier Lazkano, a rising Classics star, and Jan Tratnik, whose experience and tactical acumen will strengthen the team’s core for one-day races. These signings highlight Red Bull-BORA-Hansgrohe’s ambition to dominate both Grand Tours and Classics in the coming seasons.

INEOS Grenadiers

INEOS Grenadiers have been active during the transfer window, making strategic signings to bolster their lineup. Among the key additions is Lucas Hamilton, an experienced Australian climber who joins from Jayco Alula. Hamilton is expected to support the team’s Grand Tour leaders while also pursuing personal ambitions in stage races.

The team also welcomes Sam Watson, a promising British rider, from Groupama-FDJ. Watson’s talent in one-day races and stage finishes adds depth to their Classics squad. Another notable signing is Axel Laurance, the reigning U23 road world champion, who brings immense potential to the team’s development program. Additionally, Bob Jungels, a former Tour de France stage winner, joins from Red Bull-BORA-Hansgrohe, bringing versatility and experience to the squad.

A particularly exciting acquisition is Caleb Ewan, one of the top sprinters in the world. Ewan’s move to INEOS Grenadiers reflects the team’s ambition to diversify their capabilities, adding a strong presence in sprint stages. With multiple Tour de France stage wins under his belt, Ewan will be a crucial figure in their lineup, supported by a robust lead-out train.

However, the team will see the departure of key riders like Tom Pidcock, who moves to Q36.5 Pro Cycling, and Jhonatan Narváez, who joins UAE Team Emirates. These moves mark a shift in INEOS Grenadiers’ strategy as they focus on younger talents and fresh perspectives.

ProTeam Squads: Q36.5 and TUDOR PRO CYCLING TEAM

This year’s transfer window has also spotlighted ambitious ProTeams aiming to join the WorldTour.

• Q36.5 PRO CYCLING TEAM shocked fans with the signing of Tom Pidcock. The British rider’s departure from INEOS Grenadiers, where he was contracted until 2027, allows him greater flexibility to focus on both road cycling and other disciplines such as mountain biking and cyclocross. Pidcock’s move underscores Q36.5’s intent to elevate its status in professional cycling.
• TUDOR PRO CYCLING TEAM, led by Fabian Cancellara, has made equally significant moves. They secured the signatures of Marc Hirschi, following his successful 2024 season with UAE Team Emirates, and two-time world champion Julian Alaphilippe. Hirschi brings agility and tactical brilliance, while Alaphilippe’s experience and leadership will guide the team’s younger riders. These transfers highlight Tudor’s long-term vision and ambitions to achieve WorldTour status.

Emerging Talent and First-Time Pros

The 2025 season will see several young talents debuting in the professional peloton. VF Group-Bardiani CSF-Faizanè stands out for signing six riders under the age of 19, including Mattia Stenico and Santiago Ferraro. These young riders reflect the growing trend of teams investing in youth to secure long-term success. Meanwhile, Uno-X Mobility continues to serve as a talent factory, nurturing Scandinavian riders and offering them opportunities to shine on the world stage.

Retiring Cyclists

The cycling world will bid farewell to several legendary riders in 2025:

• Mark Cavendish, the all-time leader in Tour de France stage wins, retires after an illustrious career.
• Rigoberto Urán, known for his Olympic silver medal in 2012 and multiple Grand Tour podiums, steps away at age 37.
• Robert Gesink, a pivotal domestique for Jonas Vingegaard in recent years, also ends his career.
• Edvald Boasson Hagen, a versatile rider and multiple stage winner, has also announced his retirement.

These departures mark the end of an era, but they also open the door for rising stars and new rivalries.

Closing Thoughts

As teams finalize their rosters, it’s clear that the 2025 season will be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Ambitious transfers, bold investments, and emerging talent promise thrilling battles in the peloton. With teams like Red Bull-BORA-Hansgrohe aiming for dominance and ProTeams like Tudor and Q36.5 challenging the status quo, fans can look forward to an engaging year of cycling as these reshaped teams compete for glory.