The Two Sides of Women’s Cycling Growth: A Champion’s Concerns
The UAE Tour Women, currently underway, showcases defending champion Elisa Longo Borghini’s continued dominance. However, beneath the surface of this success lies a complex reality within women’s professional cycling – a rapid expansion that’s simultaneously creating opportunities and threatening its foundations.
The Rising Tide of Visibility and Investment
Television coverage of women’s cycling is increasing, with the Tour de France Femmes reaching a daily average of 2.7 million viewers in France in 2025 – a 500,000 increase. This surge in visibility is attracting investment, as evidenced by teams like AG Insurance and Fenix expanding their commitment to women’s squads. Longo Borghini, now riding for UAE Team ADQ after signing a three-year contract in 2025, acknowledges this positive trend.
A Fragile Foundation: The Plight of Smaller Teams
Despite the growth at the top, a worrying trend is emerging: the collapse of smaller teams and races. This creates a bottleneck, limiting opportunities for emerging talent. Longo Borghini expresses concern that not all promising riders are ready to immediately compete at the highest level, and the lack of intermediate steps could lead to lost potential. Currently, only 14 teams have accepted WorldTour licenses out of 15 available, highlighting the financial strain on participation.
Claude Sun, former team manager of Ceratizit, recently stated that the development of women’s cycling has been “too fast,” with teams struggling to meet soaring costs and new regulations. This sentiment underscores the financial pressures facing the sport.
The Continental Team Dilemma
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Continental teams will no longer be able to race in WorldTour events from 2026. This change discourages investment at lower levels, potentially hindering the development pipeline for future stars. The number of Italian teams at the Continental level has dwindled to just five, a stark contrast to the seven teams in the highest division a decade ago.
Longo Borghini’s 2025: A Year of Highs and Lows
Longo Borghini’s 2025 season was a rollercoaster. She secured victory at the UAE Tour Women and a second consecutive Giro d’Italia Women title with UAE Team ADQ. However, a crash and concussion at the Tour of Flanders, illness forcing her to abandon the Tour de France, and a controversial World Championships road race marked significant setbacks. She openly admits her responsibility for the issues at the World Championships, stating it was a “shit race” where riders prioritized preventing each other’s success over competing for the win.
Finding a New “Comfort Zone” at UAE Team ADQ
Despite the challenges, Longo Borghini feels settled at UAE Team ADQ. She appreciates the Italian-speaking environment and the team’s support, allowing her to focus on performance. She credits the team with helping her achieve her goals, including her second Giro d’Italia win.
Looking Ahead: A Focus on Consistency and Opportunity
Longo Borghini’s goals for the future include finishing the Tour de France – a race she describes as “cursed” – and continuing to win races. She emphasizes the importance of preserving opportunities for developing riders and ensuring the long-term health of the sport. She hopes the Giro d’Italia Women’s date change will allow it to flourish without being overshadowed by the Tour de France.
FAQ: The Future of Women’s Cycling
Q: Is women’s cycling financially sustainable?
A: While investment is increasing, many teams are struggling with rising costs and regulations, raising concerns about long-term financial stability.
Q: What is the role of Continental teams?
A: Continental teams provide a crucial stepping stone for young riders, but their exclusion from WorldTour events threatens this pathway.
Q: What are Longo Borghini’s main goals for 2026?
A: She aims to finish the Tour de France and continue winning races, while too advocating for the development of young talent.
Q: What was the issue at the 2025 World Championships?
A: The elite women’s road race was marked by a lack of collaboration, with top riders effectively neutralizing each other instead of competing for the win.
Did you recognize? Elisa Longo Borghini won her second overall victory at the UAE Tour Women in 2025, leading a 1-2 finish for UAE Team ADQ.
Pro Tip: Supporting smaller teams and races is crucial for fostering the next generation of cycling stars.
What are your thoughts on the future of women’s cycling? Share your opinions in the comments below!
