After hanging up his bike at the end of the season, Alessandro De Marchi will remain with Team Jayco AlUla, starting a new adventure as a sports director from 2026. The 39-year-old Friulian rider has spent more than a decade racing at the top of cycling, becoming one of the most respected riders in the group. During his professional career, De Marchi has collected three Grand Tour stage victories, as well as stage wins in high-level races like the Critérium du Dauphiné and Tour of the Alps, and one-day races such as Giro dell'Emilia and Tre Valli Varesine.

After 18 years of racing and three seasons with GreenEDGE Cycling, De Marchi concluded his career this year. He joins a solid team of sports directors at Jayco AlUla, where his recent group experience will be valuable.

Alessandro De Marchi explains: "I have been waiting for this new role for a long time. I am happy to finally take this step and, above all, I am happy because I can start this new journey in an organization that knows me, recognizes me, and has always valued me for who I am. I know I will start from scratch, I will begin to rebuild myself in this new role, which I would like to approach somewhat like I did as a rider: with passion and determination for a job that I love. I am also very curious to see and work on the process from a new perspective; it is exciting to think about how I can contribute now".

Gene Bates, Sports Manager of Team Jayco AlUla, adds: "It is fantastic to have Alessandro with Team Jayco AlUla for the next phase of his cycling career. During his time in the group, Alessandro has earned a reputation as an intelligent cyclist and is highly respected within the group. The transition from cyclist to staff member can be challenging, but we believe he will give his best, and GreenEDGE Cycling will be an excellent place for him to learn".