'Putting his name behind it has helped us' – Oscar Onley backs Scottish junior team where he started

Oscar Onley has lent his name and support to the Scottish junior cycling team that played a crucial role in his early development. Formerly known as Spokes RT, the Dundee-based squad has been rebranded as Spokes RT-Oscar Onley Development for the 2026 season. Onley, who began his European racing career with the team in 2019, has since risen through the ranks to become a leading WorldTour rider, recently securing a notable fourth place at the 2025 Tour de France before transferring mid-contract to Ineos Grenadiers. The team’s manager, Craig Grieve, emphasised the significance of Onley’s involvement, noting that the rider’s endorsement has been instrumental in attracting sponsors and raising the team’s profile. Beyond lending his name, Onley actively supports the squad by participating in training camps and virtual sessions, providing invaluable mentorship to young riders. This connection not only motivates the current juniors but also opens doors for the team to secure invitations to prestigious races across Europe. Onley expressed a strong desire to give back to the Scottish cycling community, acknowledging the support he received during his formative years. He highlighted the importance of nurturing the next generation of talent and expressed excitement at the prospect of competing alongside some of these riders in the future. His commitment reflects a broader ambition to increase the presence of Scottish cyclists at the highest levels of the sport. Spokes RT was originally established in 2012 to offer Scottish juniors rare opportunities to race on the continent, growing into one of the country’s premier development teams. After a hiatus in 2024 caused by a shortage of junior riders, the team is now relaunching with renewed energy and ambition. Plans include a new junior women’s team for 2027 and a European race programme for the men’s squad beginning in the Netherlands in May 2026. Craig Grieve recalled spotting Onley’s potential early on, describing how the rider’s talent gradually became apparent despite competing against physically larger peers. Onley’s success story serves as a powerful inspiration for young Scottish cyclists, demonstrating that world-class achievements can emerge from modest beginnings. The revitalised Spokes RT-Oscar Onley Development team aims to continue this legacy by fostering the next crop of promising riders.