UCI confirm intent on Jumbo-Visma and Soudal - Quick-Step merger

It is official that currently there is the effort to merge Jumbo-Visma and Soudal - Quick-Step. In a statement issued this Tuesday, cycling's governing body acknowledges the possibility of this happening, and informs the public on some of the details that must be met in order for it to ultimately take place.

"The UCI points out that any such operation must comply with the procedures and provisions set out in the UCI Regulations which, in particular, make it possible to ensure compliance with the contractual provisions for all personnel of the teams in question (riders, but also team management and other staff such as doctors, mechanics, sports assistants, drivers, etc.), which is of prime importance to the UCI."

The statement has not brought something new on the plate, but acknowledges the work being done behind doors to try to make it a done deal into the 2024 season. It is a public note, ensuring that if a merger is to happen between the two teams there must be full compliance with all the necessary rules and details that come along with it. On the 19th of October there will be a statement on the teams that have issued the necessary paperwork.

"In this regard, if the continuity of one of the teams could not be guaranteed for the 2024 season, the number of UCI WorldTeams would be 17 for the 2024 and 2025 seasons," another important point was mentioned, with the UCI rankings and wildcard system suffering changes. "As a result, the number of UCI ProTeams that are automatically invited to UCI WorldTour events would increase."