Out of nowhere - Cian Uijtdebroeks breaks contract with Visma and signs with Movistar until 2029

The transfer market has just been rocked with the news coming this Friday morning as we witness another contract breaking, from an unexpected source. Cian Uijtdebroeks, who had initially controversially broken his previous contract with Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe, is officially joining Movistar Team until 2029 in what is one of the most marking transfers of the season.

The news came out of nowhere, but has been confirmed by both teams. Richard Plugge has explained the reason for the split between the two: “Together we have shared two intense years, and we were delighted to see Cian achieve his first professional victory for our team this year. But the honest truth is that Cian’s ambitions and those of the team have started to move in different directions. At this moment, we cannot offer Cian the role and race program that he considers essential for his development.”

“After open and honest discussions, we agreed to his request to take a new step in his career. We wish Cian every success in that journey.” The Belgian had signed a long-term contract until 2027 and was a developing Grand Tour rider when he joined the team, with a lot of potential. Injuries however have marked his stint with Visma, and although he seemed to get back up to speed over the past few months, within the Dutch team there are several riders with the same role as the 22-year old.

A departure wasn't even in the cards, and the move to Movistar is one that is also very surprising. “It is a privilege to support young riders with the ambition and talent of Cian, who has a remarkable ability to inspire," Movistar manager Eusebio Unzué said in a press release.

"Not only because of what he can still achieve, but also for everything he has already shown. He brings with him a rich trajectory, and we feel fortunate that he has chosen us as the ideal team to continue building his promising professional career.”

“Movistar Team has a proud history in Grand Tours and WorldTour Classics. It is a team where the human aspect truly matters, operating with the spirit of a family," Uijtdebroeks explained. "I am really looking forward to becoming part of the Movistar Team family. As I live in Andorra and often train on Spanish roads, it will be an honour to defend the colours of the most iconic Spanish cycling team. Riders like Valverde, Quintana, and Mas have achieved incredible successes here, and I hope to contribute and play my role in the team’s future victories.“

The youngster has prioritized experience in the team he was to join over backstage talks that must have been ongoing for the past few weeks. In Movistar, he will likely also have freedom to lead and chase his own ambitions, mainly in the Grand Tours where there is space to do so.

“I am now at a stage in my career where further development as a GC rider in Grand Tours has become essential. I am convinced that Movistar Team—and riders like Enric Mas in particular—can help me grow in this discipline and achieve great results. The team also has a strong tradition in hilly one-day Classics, and I believe this environment can help me develop into a key rider in the peloton.“

Behind he leaves two unsuccessful years with the Dutch team, however the Spanish team may end up benefiting from the work that has been done. “Visma | Lease a Bike has been, and remains, one of the greatest teams in the world with a very specific approach to cycling. Over the past two years, I have learned a lot about training methods, nutrition, and many other aspects of professional cycling. However, I now feel it is time to open new horizons in my development and embrace new challenges.“