Israel - Premier Tech leader set to join Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale in 2026 to team up with Gall and Seixas

Matthew Riccitello is currently in the Top10 of the Vuelta a Espana and fighting for a career-changing result, but his presence in the race is in jeopardy as he is racing for Israel - Premier Tech that is being heavily pressured into leaving the race. The American however is likely not worried about his future, as a report suggests he is set to join Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale next season.

According to Wielerflits, several sources have indicated that an agreement has already been found with the French team which is having a budget increase into next season with a new sponsor, and is looking to build a team around the possibility of fighting for the Tour de France in the future with Tour de l'Avenir winner Paul Seixas who is providing enormous hopes to the team.

The French team is making big moves in the market and has already confirmed the signing of Tiesj Benoot, but it is highly expected that soon it will also announce the signings of Visma's Olav Kooij as a new lead sprinter, compatriots Cees Bol and Giro d'Italia stage winner Daan Hoole for a leadout; and also Tobias Lund Andresen as another sprinter to fill in positions. The team also has very bright young talents such as Jordan Labrosse and Léo Bisiaux who might take on a bigger role in the team in the near future.

Joining the likes of Seixas, Bisiaux, Felix Gall, Nicolas Prodhomme and Johannes Staune-Mittet for a mountain block will be the 23-year old American rider, winner of the Sibiu Cycling Tour this year and currently fighting for a Top10 at the Vuelta where he has been putting on some very impressive climbing performances. This comes as a tough loss for the Israeli team who also recently had Derek Gee break his contract into the 2026 season.