Launching a dream team in cycling isn't just about pedaling—it's about forging a legacy from the ground up! Ever wondered what it takes to build a world-class pro cycling squad from nothing? Buckle up, because we're diving into the thrilling update from Modern Adventure Pro Cycling, where passion meets perseverance. But here's where it gets controversial: are we sacrificing short-term wins for long-term culture in a sport obsessed with podium finishes?
Updated on October 18, 2025, at 10:05 AM
Embarking on the journey to establish a brand-new professional cycling team is an immense undertaking, so we've decided to provide a fresh update on our strides at Modern Adventure Pro Cycling (check it out at https://velo.outsideonline.com/tag/modern-adventure-pro-cycling/) ever since my previous piece in June. Since that initial reveal, the landscape has transformed dramatically. We were fully cognizant of the colossal hurdles in birthing a premier cycling outfit. As the management squad, we embraced the mantra that 'the optimal starting point is simply to start,' and that's precisely the path we pursued.
Team visionary George Hincapie (explore more at https://velo.outsideonline.com/tag/george-hincapie/) is buoyed by the seamless teamwork and collective effort that has fueled our progress. "The sheer volume of dedication poured into this venture over the year has been extraordinary—endless hours logged, vast distances covered, and formidable choices navigated," he remarked. "Yet, I hold unwavering confidence in our leadership cadre. They've been present through every twist, invested immense effort, and demonstrated the resolve to construct something enduring. Surrounding yourself with individuals who embrace the shared goal and aren't intimidated by the relentless toil signals you're headed in the right direction. Modern Adventure Pro Cycling rests in capable stewardship, and I'm deeply gratified by our joint achievements thus far."
This fresh American ensemble is geared toward comprising 50% to 60% U.S.-based cyclists, aiming to uphold a Pro Team standard with a minimum of 20 athletes. (For those new to cycling lingo, a Pro Team competes at the highest level of professional road racing, sanctioned by the UCI, with rigorous demands on performance, logistics, and global travel.) Consequently, our early emphasis centered on scouting these riders. But here's where it gets intriguing: in a sport where European dominance often overshadows homegrown talent, how do we level the playing field?
A deliberate emphasis on nurturing rising stars
A plethora of elite American professionals are already entrenched in European circuits, representing veteran squads that exceed our financial reach. Thus, we delegated the core scouting duties to our dynamic young directeur sportif trio—Ty Magner, Alex Howes, and Joey Rosskoph—who bring extensive familiarity and deep ties to the American cycling community. Following an intensive period of scrutiny, we've secured commitments from 20 cyclists. We're optimistic we've struck a harmonious equilibrium between youthful vigor and seasoned insight, and we're eager to nurture them thoroughly into 2026 and further. Imagine blending fresh perspectives with battle-tested strategies—it's like mixing a rookie pitcher with a veteran closer in baseball, ensuring both innovation and reliability on the road.
Under the surface, we've been tirelessly tackling numerous fronts, such as completing UCI registration (the governing body's approval process, which involves strict compliance with rules on team structure, medical protocols, and international standards), assembling a support crew, locking in gear partnerships, and arranging transportation alongside a dedicated service hub in Girona, Spain—a choice location known for its challenging climbs and vibrant cycling culture, much like how teams base in places that mirror the terrains they'll face in races.
Without getting bogged down in the exhaustive minutiae of the countless sessions of labor, deliberations, strategizing, and resolutions, I can confidently affirm that we're advancing substantially. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the big wins; it's the invisible groundwork that lays the foundation for greatness.
General manager Rich Hincapie draws inspiration from our trajectory to date. "At Modern Adventure Pro Cycling, our philosophy is that sustainable triumph begins with individuals, not merely statistical achievements," he shared. "Our selection criteria for both competitors and personnel prioritize character, principles, and communal synergy over immediate outcomes. In the proper framework and atmosphere, excellence emerges organically. Throughout recent months, our executive group has maintained open lines of dialogue, meticulously appraising each candidate to ensure congruence with our ethos and objectives. We've concentrated on cultivating a collective that flourishes through unity, honesty, and mutual drive. This intentional, reflective journey has erected a base designed not solely for victory, but for cultivating a resilient culture." But here's where it gets controversial: in an era where data-driven decisions dominate sports, is emphasizing 'soft' qualities like personality a bold risk or a genius long game? Could this approach revolutionize cycling, or does it overlook the cutthroat reality of winning?
A blended European and American strategy
As a fledgling entity, we're cognizant that errors are inevitable. We'll tune in, absorb lessons, and modify as obstacles arise. With committed personnel at the helm, we're methodically constructing toward the future, fostering a squad that's electrifying, motivating, and esteemed. Moreover, we're meticulously charting the competition schedule and athlete development plans for 2026. Our blueprint involves operating a single European racing initiative concurrently, all while bolstering a robust footprint in the domestic U.S. circuit. Managing racing activities across continents poses a daunting test, even for the most veteran organizations—think of it like juggling jet-lagged travels while maintaining peak physical condition—so our primary aim is to prioritize growth over flawlessness.
We're delighted that our enduring initiative has garnered favorable reception from numerous segments of the cycling world, yet abundant tasks lie ahead. Our commitment stays fixed on upholding a upbeat reputation, exhibiting expertise, embracing enjoyment, and delivering peak performances consistently. Our cyclists are paramount. We intend to integrate state-of-the-art initiatives, standards, and methodologies both on and off the bicycle to equip them for prosperity. For instance, this might include advanced training apps for tracking recovery, nutritional plans tailored to individual needs, or mental health support programs—tools that go beyond just pedaling harder.
In tandem with our benefactors, collaborators, and supporters, our mission is to champion our athletes' aspirations in elite cycling and their everyday existence, fully recognizing that champions often toil in obscurity before the cheers! Please keep following for more updates...
What do you think—does prioritizing culture over quick wins make sense in high-stakes sports like cycling? Or should teams focus solely on results to stand out in a competitive field? Share your thoughts in the comments; we'd love to hear differing perspectives!
