'It would be a dream to race the Tour de France Femmes' - Pathways Fund provides novel support for two US riders to join French team and compete at Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix

American cyclists Allison Mrugal and Natalie Quinn have secured contracts to race at the ProTeam level in 2026 with the French outfit Mayenne Monbana My Pie, thanks to support from the Pathways Fund. This non-profit initiative was created following the dissolution of Cynisca Cycling, aiming to provide financial stability and resources such as salaries, travel, and race access for riders transitioning to higher-tier teams. Both riders have quickly adapted to their new environment, competing in prestigious Spring Classics and positioning themselves as potential participants in the Tour de France Femmes. Mrugal and Quinn’s journey to this point has been marked by uncertainty and resilience, having faced unemployment after Cynisca Cycling’s closure. Mrugal, who previously raced for the Spanish Sopela team and Cynisca Cycling, expressed deep gratitude for the Pathways Fund’s role in sustaining her professional career in Europe. Quinn, a former US U23 road champion, also benefited from her time at Cynisca, achieving notable results including a mountains classification win at the Tour of Portugal and top-10 finishes in UCI races. Their performances at early-season races such as the Tour of Flanders have demonstrated their aggressive racing style and commitment to their teams’ objectives. The Pathways Fund’s impact extends beyond financial aid, offering a platform for US talent to compete on the European stage with the necessary support to thrive. Cynisca Cycling’s CEO, Chris Gutowsky, highlighted the fund’s efficiency in aiding riders like Mrugal and Quinn, who are now eyeing selection for the Tour de France Femmes. Mrugal described racing in the Tour as a dream and is determined to earn a spot on the team’s roster, which remains unannounced. The fund continues to seek donations, with a recent $10,000 anonymous contribution matched to support the riders’ 2026 season. Looking ahead, the Pathways Fund aims to provide sustained backing for emerging talent, allowing riders to focus on performance without the burden of logistical and financial concerns. A fundraiser linked to a planned trip to the 2026 Tour de France Femmes will further bolster the fund’s resources, underscoring the community’s commitment to nurturing women’s cycling. For Mrugal and Quinn, this support represents more than just funding—it is a vital lifeline enabling them to pursue their ambitions at the highest level of the sport.