Movistar Team announces major internal overhaul ahead of 2026: “We want a modern, efficient structure aligned with today’s cycling”

After a relatively quiet end to the 2025 season, Movistar Team has announced a sweeping internal restructuring aimed at modernising the organisation and strengthening its fight to remain in the World Tour beyond 2026.

The Spanish outfit confirmed the creation of a new development framework under the leadership of Sebastian Unzue, marking a decisive shift as the team prepares for a new three-year cycle.

In an official statement, Movistar revealed that the overhaul would introduce four key departments — Performance, Racing, Health, and Riders — each led by dedicated specialists. The goal, according to Unzue, is to make the long-standing team more agile and better adapted to the demands of modern professional cycling.

“We want to continue evolving as an organisation and give the team a modern, efficient structure that reflects the demands of contemporary cycling,” Unzue said. “This new model will allow us to optimise processes and strengthen collaboration between all departments.”

The Performance Department, headed by Ivan Velasco and Xabier Muriel, will oversee engineering, biomechanics, nutrition, and R&D. The Racing Department will be led by Chente Garcia Acosta alongside Matthew White, who joins Movistar from 2026 to share sporting and planning duties.

Meanwhile, Inigo Michelena will front the Health Department, responsible for medical oversight and the riders’ overall wellbeing. The final Riders Department will be managed by the cyclists’ own representatives, reflecting a shift towards greater athlete involvement in the team’s decision-making processes.

As Movistar enters a crucial phase in its World Tour future — and with the threat of relegation never far away — this internal shake-up signals a clear intent to rebuild from within for what will hopefully be a better future. The team’s management hopes that by overhauling its structure now, it can create a more stable foundation for success in the seasons ahead.