'An American on the top step of the Tour de France' - Zwift, Canyon and Pedal Mafia launch new U19 development team

Zwift, Canyon Bicycles, and Pedal Mafia have joined forces to launch a new North American under-19 development cycling team aimed at producing a future Tour de France or Tour de France Femmes winner within the next decade. The initiative will field both men's and women's junior squads, drawing talent from the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with plans to compete in races across North America and Europe starting in 2027. This ambitious project seeks to address the absence of North American riders on the top step of the Tour de France podium for over 20 years. A key element of the programme is its commitment to financial stability, a challenge that has traditionally hindered junior development teams. Zwift CEO Eric Min emphasised the importance of a long-term approach, highlighting the establishment of a dedicated foundation and endowment to provide consistent funding. This strategy aims to create a sustainable platform that supports athletes’ growth both on and off the bike, ensuring the project endures well beyond the emergence of its first champion. The development team will benefit from the expertise and backing of prominent WorldTour teams, including Alpecin–Premier Tech, Fenix–Premier Tech, and Canyon-SRAM, which will offer sporting support and a clear pathway to professional ranks. Veteran cycling director Roy Knickman, with extensive experience coaching and developing junior talent, has been appointed to lead the team. His background as a former Olympian and professional rider brings invaluable insight to nurturing the next generation of North American cycling stars. This initiative arrives at a time when North American road cycling is seeking renewed momentum amid declining race opportunities and diminished commercial support. The upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games and the rising profile of women’s cycling provide additional impetus for investment in young talent. Canyon founder Roman Arnold expressed strong support for the project, viewing it as a vital step in building community and delivering value in the evolving social media landscape of the sport. The team is set to officially launch later this year, with a European training camp planned for December ahead of the 2027 season. This marks a significant step in revitalising North American cycling development and potentially restoring the continent’s presence at the highest levels of professional road racing.