The young Hungarian talent Bàlint Makrai (06/10/2006) will turn professional with the MBH Bank Ballan CSB Colpack team in 2026. For the Hungarian rider, from Vac, this is a great opportunity after just one season in the U23 category, during which he has shown consistent growth.

Makrai is one of the most promising young talents developed in the Italian-Hungarian MBH Bank Ballan CSB Colpack system, a concrete demonstration of how the project is working in nurturing emerging talents. A former triathlete, he dedicated himself to cycling with steady improvement and a surprisingly mature mindset.

When asked if he really expected to turn professional, he responds with great honesty: "Honestly, no. At the beginning of the year, my goal was simply to continue improving, gain experience, and help the team as much as possible."

Makrai brings valuable lessons from the past season: "I learned a lot about consistency and teamwork. The most important lesson was understanding how crucial it is to stay focused every day, even when things aren't going well."

The transition to professional cycling was a gradual process: "Exactly, a gradual process, but at a certain point, I felt that with maximum commitment, turning professional could really become a reality."

The significance of being part of an Italian-Hungarian team: "It means a lot. I'm proud to represent my country in this way. I grew up watching Hungarian riders make their mark internationally, and now being part of that history motivates me even more."

Who does he dedicate his professional debut to? His first thought is for his family: "They have supported me from the beginning, in every moment, both good and difficult. And naturally to the entire MBH Bank Ballan CSB Colpack structure, which gave me trust and growth opportunities".

Future goals: Makrai looks ahead with humility and determination: "I want to continue learning and adapting to the professional level, contribute to the team's success. My main goal is to grow step by step and prove that I deserve this opportunity."

The team's words come from team manager Antonio Bevilacqua: "Makrai demonstrates that our project works and we are best developing talents from both Hungary and Italy. The young man has shown skills and determination, learning the trade every day. He was included in the 2026 project because he earned it, and we congratulate him for this".