Who would be the first rider you would sign if you started a pro cycling team?
Imagine the dream job of running a professional cycling team: you have the money, you have the staff... but which rider would be at the top of your list to sign? - Photo by Yuzuru Sunada
We recently asked Cycling Weekly readers which rider they would pick first when creating a pro cycling team, and why they would pick them.
Here we present a selection of the answers. Who would you choose?
Simon Yates because I would love to be the one behind the scenes in nurturing the next Grand Tour phenomenon, but also I would hope that his courage and aggressive riding style would rub off, so to speak, on the other riders of the team.
Darren Rider
Oliver Naesen and Romain Bardet. Not because I am an Ag2r fan (I am) but they give it all and Bardet needs stronger team-mates.
Marc Selby
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Marianne Vos. One of the most reliable riders in the past decade, despite a rough couple of seasons due to illness/injury. She always has time for a TV interview and appreciates her team-mates as much as her team-mates appreciate her. A team player who delivers results: definitely top of the list.
Graham Pickford
Thomas De Gendt — an absolute inspiration to watch ride/race his bike, would be a great leader of the team and no matter what gives 100 per cent. The type of rider everyone wants to be like; can win stages and pull some great turns in the pack. All about the breakaway coverage!
Tom Mansfield
Peter Sagan. He has charisma, talent, a fantastic sprint, and climbs well. He is the world champion and can do great wheelies.
Jim Brown
Egan Bernal - he's a future Grand Tour winner.
Janelle Caddick
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Adam Hansen as road captain. He has brains and experience, and is open to new technology. You wouldn’t have to do much thinking with him on the team.
James Milne
Mark Cavendish, of course. He may be coming to the end of his career but I doubt anyone in the next decade will equal his impressive palmarès. Although Fernando Gaviria may get close.
Cherry Winter
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Founded in 1891, Cycling Weekly and its team of expert journalists brings cyclists in-depth reviews, extensive coverage of both professional and domestic racing, as well as fitness advice and 'brew a cuppa and put your feet up' features. Cycling Weekly serves its audience across a range of platforms, from good old-fashioned print to online journalism, and video.
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