Key Takeaways:
– Pro cyclist Jan Christen has renewed his contract with UAE Team Emirates through 2030.
– Christen joins Tadej Pogačar and Pablo Torres in the squad for the next six seasons.
– Young stars Isaac Del Toro and Juan Ayuso are also signed on long-term deals until 2029 and 2028 respectively.
– Christen showed his talent during his first full WorldTour season in 2024 where he won thrice, including a solo victory at Il Giro d’Abruzzo.
– CEO Mauro Gianetti praises Christen for his ability to win and be a supportive team player.
Long-Term Deal for Swiss Cyclist
Swiss cycling prodigy Jan Christen has solidified his future by extending his contract with UAE Team Emirates through to 2030. This span makes it one of the lengthiest agreements in professional cycling, demonstrating UAE Team Emirates’ confidence in his talent and potential.
Joining Highly Esteemed Cycling Colleagues
In renewing his contract, Christen becomes part of a formidable team, lining up alongside the world’s top rider, Tadej Pogačar and Spanish climbing prodigy Pablo Torres. The UAE team has also enrolled rising stars Isaac Del Toro and Juan Ayuso, with contracts spanning till 2029 and 2028 respectively.
Rider Development and Career Growth
Grateful for the opportunity, Christen relished the prospect of hailing from a highly supportive environment. He believes it will serve as the ideal platform to further improve his cycling skills. He added, “With an outstanding support network both on and off the bike, I anticipate significant development in my abilities. I am excited about the future and look forward to realizing my career objectives.”
Young Achiever on the International Stage
At only 20, Christen boasts an impressive WorldTour season record. In 2024 he championed three races, with his solo win at Il Giro d’Abruzzo standing out as the most impressive feat. The young cyclist also performed remarkably at the Trofeo Laigueglia and Milano-Torino races, securing fifth and second place respectively.
Christen, a renowned aggressive racer, displayed his prowess on the global stage as a former junior cyclocross world champion. He made his mark at the home Worlds in Zurich, garnering third place in the under-23 time trial and fourth in the road race owing to a long solo attack.
Supporting Notable Teammates
Aligning with Pogačar, the reigning Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and world champion, Christen is expected to demonstrate his value as a team supporter. During his debuts at the Il Lombardia and Strade Bianche races, Christen proved he fits well into the UAE team dynamics.
Team CEO’s High Expectations
CEO Mauro Gianetti applauds Christen’s selfless nature and ability. Gianetti stated, “As well as his potential for winning, he adds value by embodying team spirit – a quality we highly value. We look forward to seeing him grow both as a rider and as an individual.” These words reflect the UAE Team Emirates’ vision for nurturing young talent and moulding them into future champions.
In conclusion, the contract extension of Swiss cyclist Jan Christen with UAE Team Emirates strengthens the team’s powerful lineup and promises exciting developments in the professional cycling arena. With the commitment of talented riders like Christen, and the team’s unwavering support, the future of professional cycling shines bright.