Adam Hansen, president of the CPA - Cyclistes Professionnels Associés, the global riders' association, published a reflection on X addressing crucial issues in the future of professional cycling. A true "behind the scenes" look at riders' lives, far from the polished race image, revealing how he is working in the interest of the athletes he represents.

The World Championships in Rwanda: A Success, But Not Without Criticism

In his post, Hansen first talks about his experience at the recent World Championships in Rwanda, describing them as one of the best-organized events in recent years: a perfect circuit, warm audience, extraordinary landscapes. However, he does not shy away from criticism of the route: according to him, the course was too hard and the maximum time limit too narrow, resulting in many riders unable to complete the race.

CPA: Defending Riders, Enhancing the Sport

The former Australian rider, who succeeded Gianni Bugno at the top of the Riders' Association, explains why he wanted to focus on non-competitive aspects in his message: the CPA wants to show cycling as a professional and modern sport capable of attracting investments and sponsors. The World Championships in Rwanda, he argues, represented exactly the direction this sport should follow.

The Real Problem: Contractual Uncertainty and Team Merger

The central part of his message, however, concerns the worrying situation many riders are experiencing. Some teams are closing, and the merger between two WorldTour teams has created chaos: there are 44 riders and only 30 contracts available for the next season.

Hansen recounts asking the UCI and teams for an official list of confirmed riders and those who will be left without a contract. What struck him most was that many cyclists had no idea about their situation, with some even mistakenly thinking they had been confirmed. A lack of communication that, according to Hansen, is unacceptable.

"We Need a Clear Protocol to Protect Riders"

President Hansen emphasizes that the CPA should not be the entity informing cyclists in October that they will not have a contract. A clear procedure is needed, agreed upon with the UCI, that requires teams to inform athletes in advance, especially in case of mergers. According to Hansen, a team merger should only be approved when every rider has a guaranteed spot or an alternative offer.

From SafeR to Sprints: The Work Continues

Hansen explained that the CPA continues to work on the SafeR project, dedicated to safety, with particular attention to sprints. A "Sprint Handbook" is being prepared, a clear and simple guide on what is and isn't allowed in sprints. Meanwhile, the data shows an improvement: incidents attributed to rider errors have decreased by 25% compared to last year.

"This is the Voice of the Riders"

In the final part of his message, Hansen ironically closes by writing that this first "column" has ended up being much longer than expected (which is why we have summarized and divided it into points for you, you can find the full version in English on X, ed.), but his goal is clear: to give voice to riders, protect them in the most delicate situations, and contribute to a more transparent, safe, and sustainable cycling.