'We are gravely concerned' - The Cyclists' Alliance respond to the UCI's request for consultation on the future of the sport

The Cyclists’ Alliance (TCA) has responded critically to the Union Cycliste Internationale’s (UCI) recent consultation on the future of women’s cycling, expressing deep concerns about the sport’s current trajectory. While the UCI has highlighted significant growth in women’s racing, the TCA argues that this progress has not translated into a robust or sustainable professional structure. The advocacy group warns that despite increased visibility and momentum, the foundations of women’s cycling remain fragile, with the risk of collapse looming, as echoed by riders such as Elisa Longo Borghini. In their detailed submission to the UCI, the TCA proposes substantial reforms aimed at addressing systemic weaknesses. Key recommendations include overhauling the funding model through revenue sharing and adjusting the Women’s WorldTour calendar, notably suggesting the Vuelta Femenina be scheduled after the men’s race in September to maximise exposure. The letter also calls for improved media coverage standards, highlighting inconsistent broadcast quality across races, and stresses the importance of safety enhancements such as adopting a rider-centred approach to GPS tracking, removing hazardous course features near race finishes, and revising the yellow card disciplinary system. The organisation also raises alarm about the instability at the lower tiers of women’s cycling, where the loss of races and escalating costs have led to team closures and diminished development opportunities for emerging riders. This erosion of the sport’s grassroots infrastructure threatens long-term growth and sustainability. The TCA emphasises that the current moment of increased popularity must be matched by structural reforms to ensure the sport’s future viability and the welfare of its athletes. Deena Blacking, TCA’s Interim Managing Director, underlined that the submission represents a collective vision from the riders themselves, aiming to secure a stronger and more sustainable foundation for women’s cycling. The comprehensive letter, exceeding 5,600 words, outlines a clear roadmap for evolution, signalling a call to action for the UCI to move beyond surface-level progress and implement meaningful change. The TCA’s intervention highlights the ongoing challenges within the sport and the urgent need for collaborative solutions to safeguard its future.