Another blow to British racing scene as a Vitus Pro Cycling folds
The Continental squad has ceased racing as team owner Cherie Pridham steps back
The British racing scene has suffered another blow at the end of 2020, as Vitus Pro Cycling has folded.
After three years of racing, the Continental outfit will see out the rest of the season, with some esports events still to come, but will not continue into 2021.
Vitus Pro Cycling powered by Brother UK is owned by Cherie Pridham, who has taken the decision to step back from domestic racing after 11 years running Conti teams.
Pridham said the decision was “one of the most difficult she’s ever made,” but added that the scarcity of sponsors and uncertainty caused by Covid-19 have resulted in the closure.
She said: “I’d like to thank all of our sponsors, particularly Vitus and Brother UK, for their unwavering support and assistance. In addition, all the riders and back office team I’ve worked with who have all contributed to our success over so many years.”
Phil Jones, managing director of team sponsor Brother UK, said: “It’s always a sad time when a team concludes its activities, but as a business leader, I’m keenly aware of the new economic realities created by Covid and understand Cherie’s decision entirely.”
His words were echoed by rider Chris McGlinchey , who said: “Vitus have had a fantastic three years with Cherie and enjoyed being a part of the team’s journey, the staff and riders provided Invaluable feedback on our bike development.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
“2020 has been an extremely difficult year for professional sports and the team adapted extremely well turning to creating great content and participating successfully in the fast-growing esports scene, that is a credit to Cherie’s commitment to the team’s sponsors and partners.
>>> John Archibald and Mark Christian join Alberto Contador’s ProTeam
“We have no doubt Cherie will be back in the future. From everyone at Vitus thank you for the past three years.”
Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
Join now for unlimited access
Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
Alex Ballinger is editor of BikeBiz magazine, the leading publication for the UK cycle industry, and is the former digital news editor for CyclingWeekly.com. After gaining experience in local newsrooms, national newspapers and in digital journalism, Alex found his calling in cycling, first as a reporter, then as news editor responsible for Cycling Weekly's online news output, and now as the editor of BikeBiz. Since pro cycling first captured his heart during the 2010 Tour de France (specifically the Contador-Schleck battle) Alex covered three Tours de France, multiple editions of the Tour of Britain, and the World Championships, while both writing and video presenting for Cycling Weekly. He also specialises in fitness writing, often throwing himself into the deep end to help readers improve their own power numbers. Away from the desk, Alex can be found racing time trials, riding BMX and mountain bikes, or exploring off-road on his gravel bike. He’s also an avid gamer, and can usually be found buried in an eclectic selection of books.
-
I’m having to tell people I’m still a cyclist despite the fact it’s not cool anymore
Bragging rights now belong to the paddleboarders
By Michael Hutchinson Published
-
Canyon Grail CF SL 7 AXS review: a gravel bike of two halves?
The integrated cockpit and aero tubing are somewhat at odds with the Grail's taller stack height
By Rachel Sokal Published