It was an open secret already for a few months but the transfer has been confirmed today. BORA - hansgrohe look to further reinforce their sprinter field and they have announced the signing of Sam Welsford.
With Sam Bennett leaving the team at the end of 2023, the German team looked to sign another big figure when it came to the fast finishes. Fabio Jakobsen was for a while a possibility, however at the beginning of the summer it became apparent that BORA was in deep negotiations with Sam Welsford. A deal was reportedly already agreed on in June but two months later it's been confirmed.
Welsford was a track rider, on the road only part of the Australian domestic scene until 2021. Team DSM-Firmenich put a bet on him and signed him in 2022 and it proved to be a great move for both sides, as he proved his potential and took wins in races such as the very recent Renewi Tour, Vuelta a San Juan, Tour of Turkey and more. Furthermore, he's had plenty secondary results among the best sprinters in the peloton.
The 27-year old did his Grand Tour debut this summer at the Tour de France but failed to be a part of the sprints, only once featuring in the Top10. It is expected however that within the frames of BORA he will have more experienced and stronger support when it comes to leadouts and can aim for higher goals.
Sam Welsford will join BORA - hansgrohe from 1st January and strengthen the team’s sprinter group. The Australian is currently riding in his second WorldTour season and proved his sprinting abilities just a few days ago at the Renewi Tour. #borahansgrohe #newseason #procycling
