'Just to fill up a bus costs a fortune' – What does it cost to run a successful WorldTour cycling team?

Operating a men’s WorldTour cycling team today demands an annual budget of around €30 million merely to remain competitive, with the top teams requiring even more substantial funding. Despite the high overall costs, individual rider salaries remain modest compared to other sports, with only a handful earning over €1 million annually. Leading figures such as Tadej Pogačar stand out with salaries exceeding €8 million, but most professionals earn significantly less, highlighting that the bulk of team expenditure lies elsewhere. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) projects that combined budgets for the 18 men’s WorldTeams will reach approximately €620-630 million in 2026, up from €570 million in 2023. Women’s WorldTeams are also seeing growth, with 15 teams sharing a collective budget of €80 million. Sponsorships account for around 90% of these revenues, as teams have limited income from other sources due to free spectator access and relatively low merchandise sales compared to sports like football. Personnel costs dominate team budgets, accounting for roughly 73% of spending in men’s WorldTeams, with salaries for riders and staff comprising the largest portion. Median rider salaries hover around €350,000, with self-employed cyclists generally earning more than their employed counterparts. Bonuses for major victories can significantly boost earnings, but these are typically shared among teammates. Meanwhile, the number of staff supporting teams has expanded, with many squads now employing around 65 personnel, reflecting the increased operational demands of the sport. Beyond salaries, teams face considerable expenses related to competition logistics. Around 15% of budgets cover race-related costs such as travel, accommodation, and vehicle expenses. While organisers provide some support, including hotel rooms for riders and essential staff, teams must cover additional personnel costs and transportation themselves. These operational expenditures have grown considerably in recent years, with team managers emphasising the financial challenges of maintaining a presence at the extensive WorldTour calendar. The escalating costs of running a WorldTour team underscore the financial pressures within professional cycling as it seeks to maintain competitive standards and expand its global reach. With budgets rising and operational demands increasing, teams must balance investment in talent and infrastructure while navigating limited revenue streams. The financial landscape suggests that only well-funded organisations or wealthy backers can realistically aspire to challenge the established leaders in the sport.