Leaving the world of cycling? Some might have thought so, but certainly not Alexander Kristoff. We last saw him in Malaysia with his final race cut short due to a fall and an undefined future off the bike. A month ago, he was quite vague when we asked how he would imagine life after being a professional, but today we can say that his journey in cycling is far from over - in fact, he's about to write an unexpected new chapter as a manager.

Starting from 2026, Alexander Kristoff will become co-owner of Drali-Repsol, a Norwegian continental team. The former Coop Repsol is a true institution in Northern Europe, founded in 2004. Over the years, it has nurtured many young Norwegian cyclists and traditionally launched them into professional cycling through Uno X. The list is truly long, and among the latest talents discovered is Storm Ingebrigsten, winner of a stage at the Tour of Norway, who has signed a contract with Uno X until 2027. "I'm happy to continue being part of the cycling community, and I believe it's important for Norway to have a team like Team Drali-Repsol that helps young talents. With my experience, I hope to help athletes and the team by applying everything I've learned over the years about training, racing, and equipment," Kristoff said, ready to support Norwegian youngsters who could become the champions of tomorrow.

During our conversation in Malaysia, he had talked about the need to support young talents and the responsibility of being a role model for those who dream of cycling; now, all of this has become a reality for the 2017 European champion, who in Norway is considered not just an example to follow but a true superstar. The team of which Kristoff is a co-owner also has an Italian touch - news from this morning is the entry of Drali Milano, a historic Milanese bicycle brand, as title sponsor of the squad.

The details of Alexander Kristoff's role within the team and how he will act as co-owner are not yet known, but he will certainly be a valuable addition to the formation. And so, just a month after his retirement from racing, the Norwegian champion begins a new adventure on the other side, a different way to continue living cycling, but equally exciting.