Get ready for a new era in cycling because George Hincapie, a legend of the sport, is launching a brand-new ProTeam called Modern Adventure Pro Cycling, and the 20-rider roster is finally here! This squad isn't just about speed; it's about building something bigger.
Hincapie, whose own career included 17 Tours de France appearances (though later marred by a doping admission), isn't just putting together a team; he's aiming for a "renaissance of American cycling." He's setting his sights high, with an ambitious goal of competing in the Tour de France within five years! That's a bold statement, considering the challenges of reaching that level. But he is not alone in this endeavor. His brother Rich Hincapie, will be co-managing the team.
The team's website proudly proclaims that they've assembled “a bold group united by talent, grit, and a shared vision for the future of the sport,” featuring both seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talents. "From seasoned pros to rising stars, each rider brings their own rhythm and story to the peloton. Together, they represent a new kind of cycling team: one built on purpose, camaraderie, and the belief that progress happens when you ride for something bigger than yourself. This is the roster shaping the next chapter of American cycling.” This isn't just a team; it's a statement.
Eleven of the riders hail from the United States, including Robin Carpenter, a name familiar to British fans from his stage win at the 2021 Tour of Britain. Carpenter brings a wealth of experience, having previously raced for Human Powered Health and L39ION of Los Angeles. But here's where it gets interesting... Can his experience translate into leadership and mentorship for the younger riders on the team?
Modern Adventure Pro Cycling is also bringing in fresh blood from WorldTour development squads. Cole Kessler, 22, joins after two years with Lidl-Trek Future Racing, and Ian López, also 22, comes from EF Education-Aevolo. These young riders represent the future of the sport, but can they handle the pressure of a newly formed ProTeam with ambitious goals?
Alongside Leo Hayter, the British contingent includes Olympian Mark Stewart, a track specialist and member of the Great Britain squad, and Lucas Towers, whose sister Alice is set to join EF Education-Oatly. The team's diverse roster, blending American and British talent, is definitely something to watch.
And this is the part most people miss... Hincapie has assembled a seriously impressive support staff. Former US national road champions Joey Rosskopf and Alex Howes, along with ex-pro Ty Magner, will serve as sports directors, guiding the riders with their experience and tactical knowledge.
Even more impressive, Tour de France podium finisher Bobby Julich will be the team's performance director. Julich's past is, shall we say, complicated. He left his role at Team Sky after revealing his own history of doping. This is potentially controversial... Can someone with a past doping violation truly lead a team focused on clean sport and ethical performance? It's a question that's sure to spark debate.
Modern Adventure Pro Cycling Full Squad:
- Sam Boardman (30, USA)
- Robin Carpenter (33, USA)
- Ezra Caudell (19, USA)
- Sean Christian (23, USA)
- Stefan de Bod (28, South Africa)
- Samuel Florez (20, Colombia)
- Kieran Haug (23, USA)
- Leo Hayter (24, Great Britain)
- Cole Kessler (22, USA)
- Harry Lasker (18, USA)
- Ian López (22, USA)
- Brody McDonald (23, USA)
- Scott McGill (27, USA)
- Byron Munton (26, South Africa)
- Ben Oliver (28, New Zealand)
- Riley Pickrell (24, Canada)
- Hugo Scala (27, USA)
- Mark Stewart (30, Great Britain)
- Lucas Towers (22, Great Britain)
- Paul Wright (27, New Zealand)
So, what do you think? Is Modern Adventure Pro Cycling poised to become a major force in American cycling? Will Hincapie's ambitious Tour de France goal be realized? And what about Julich's involvement – is it a risk worth taking? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
