An overview of what we know so far about how the women’s domestic road race teams are shaping up for 2025. A similar overview for men’s domestic teams can be found here.
This is a ‘live’ post, so expect frequent updates, especially as we get the post up and running – this is very much a work in progress, so check back in regularly to see all the latest.
Featured photo: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
UCI Continental teams
There were a record six UCI Continental British women’s team in 2024, with Alba Road Development Team and Pro-Noctis – 200o Coffee – Hargreaves Contracting both stepping up from elite status and Hess Cycling Team switching to a British licence. However, with Britain’s biggest team, Lifeplus-Wahoo, closing its doors, the UK’s UCI team presence looks set to shrink.
DAS-Hutchinson approaches the 2025 season with a streamlined 15-rider roster, including seven new signings, as they look to build on the successes of 2024. This marks their second season following the merger of DAS-Handsling and Hutchinson-Brother. The UCI Continental squad is aiming for a dual focus: maintaining a strong presence in the UK National Road and Circuit Series while tackling an ambitious European racing programme.
Team manager Simon Howes reaffirms the team’s commitment to the domestic scene, pointing to their impressive results last year, including victories in National-level races and team classification wins in both the National Road and Circuit Series. Despite the departure of long-term sponsor Brother, new partnerships have been secured, ensuring the team’s plans remain on track. “We’ve always supported UK racing, and we’ll do as much as we can,” says Howes, also noting the challenges of competing on multiple fronts across Europe.
With eight riders remaining from 2024, including standouts like Curlew Cup winner Robyn Clay and Tammy Miller, the team retains a solid core. Clay, who missed much of 2024 due to injury, is expected to take another step forward, while Miller and Sophie Lewis bring further depth to the squad. New signings such as Ruby Oakes, Lizzie Hermolle, and Ellie Parry inject fresh talent, balancing youth with experience, and ensuring the team can continue its tradition of developing riders to progress in their careers.
Howes acknowledges the logistical challenges of managing an expansive race calendar but sees the team’s international scope as a key strength. A more selective race programme in 2025 aims to maximise competitiveness while maintaining their reputation as a team that provides opportunities for riders to excel. Recruitment, he explains, is based on results, personality, and ambition, with the team offering flexibility for riders pursuing dual goals, such as Olympic track racing.
Run by Pat Hayes, O’Shea Racing began in 2021. Previously called AWOL O’Shea and Doltcini O’Shea, the team has steadily grown its international race programme, accompanied by an increasingly international roster.
More to follow.
2024 Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Women. Image: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
In: Isabella Escalera (Torelli), Emilie Fortin (Cynisca Cycling), Sophie Holmes (Saint Piran WRT), Frøya Knox (Grouwels-Watersley R&D Road Team), Ida Kirckau Ketelson (Team Rytger – Carl Ras), Katie Scott (Spectra Racing), Yilla Treels (Grouwels-Watersley R&D Road Team), Ella Wahlström (Grouwels-Watersley R&D Road Team), Sannah Zaman (DAS-Hutchinson-Brother UK)
Bob Lyons’ athlete-centric, Scottish-focused development outfit has a grand five-year plan to create a two-tier team structure: a fully salaried UCI Continental Team, with a development team sitting underneath.
After a breakthrough 2024 season at the UCI Continental level, Scottish team Alba Development Road Team has unveiled its 2025 squad, as well as a new title sponsor, Handsling. Under Bob Lyons’ leadership, the team achieved unprecedented success, with Eilidh Shaw claiming both the National Road Series and National Circuit Series titles. With Shaw moving to the UAE Development Team and several other riders departing, the team is aiming to build on its success by focusing on rider development and expanding its European racing programme.
Key returning riders include Keira Bond, Lauren Dickson, Arianne Holland, Beth Morrow, Abi Plowman, and Amelia Tyler, who all showed promise in 2024. The squad has also strengthened with five new signings, including El King and Maddie Leech from Lifeplus-Wahoo, and experienced track star Neah Evans. Lyons emphasised that the team’s ethos remains the same: “The ethos and goals of the team remain unchanged, in that we are totally focused on the development of the riders in order to deliver them to WorldTour. The depth and balance of the squad for 2025 give us a lot of flexibility in regard to how we achieve such objectives.”
The Hess Cycling Team began in 2023 and raced under a Luxembourg licence for its first season. Owned by the London-based Swiss businessman Rolf Hess, the team switched to a British racing licence in 2024 and has ambitions to become the first British Women’s WorldTour team.
The team has announced a three-year sponsorship agreement with OFX, an international money transfer company.
More to follow.
2024 Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Women. Image: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
In: Danique Braam (Chevalmeire), Elisabeth Ebras (AG Insurance – Soudal NXTG), Natalie Quinn (EF-Oatly-Cannondale), Betty Hasse (CCB – Alpine Carbon p/b Levine Law Group Women’s Cycling), Laura Lizette (UAE Development Team), Maeve Plouff (Team dsm-firmenich PostNL), Kate Richardson (Lifeplus Wahoo), Elena Wu-Yan (Doltcini-O’Shea), Esther Wong (Shibden Apex RT)
Re-signed: Grace Lister, Alice McWilliam, Holly Ramsay, Liv Wenzel
Out: Txell Claret Bonmarti, Sara Casasola, Imogen Cotter (Retired), Nicole Frain (Ridley Racing Team), Rotem Gavinovitz, Annika Liehner, Clara Lundmark, Johanna Martini, Laura Süßemilch, Marjolein Van’t Geloof (Arkéa – B&B Hotels Women)
The team’s termination leaves 11 riders, the majority of them under-23s, searching for a new home in 2025.
Image: Lifeplus-Wahoo
Out: Kristýna Burlová (Team Dukla Praha), Heidi Franz (Cynisca Cycling), Alicia Gonzalez (St Michel – Preference Home – Auber93), Ella Jamieson (Massi-Baix Ter), Ella Harris, Eluned King (Alba Development Road Team), Madelaine Leech (Alba Development Road Team), Kate Richardson (Hess Cycling Team), Kaja Rysz (Roland), Karin Söderqvist, Babette van der Wolf (EF-Oatly-Cannondale)
Rick Lister’s Finish Line Racing project evolves from Pro-Noctis – 200 Degrees Coffee -Hargreaves Contracting Ltd to Smurfit Westrock Cycling Team in 2025 thanks to a new three-year deal with the Irish packaging giant. The team stepped up to UCI Continental level in 2024, and the new sponsorship agreement should elevate the team further in 2025.
The team welcomes six new riders for 2025, including juniors Amelia Cebak, Lucy Glover, and Alice Colling, who bring impressive results in road racing and cyclocross. Grace Reynolds, a breakthrough rider in 2024, adds firepower, while Niamh Murphy and Lucy Nelson bring valuable European racing experience. Experienced rider Sian Botteley also joins to bolster the squad’s depth.
Core riders like Jo Tindley, Lucy Harris, and Lucy Gadd will continue, maintaining stability within the team. Several other important riders re-sign too, ensuring the spine of the squad’s continuity. Notable exits include Amy Gornall, Lizi Brooke, and Zoe Langham, the latter retiring after years with the team.
Late signing Alex Morrice is an eye-catching addition. The former Zwift Academy is an outstanding talent and could thrive if given the leadership opportunities she deserves.
British Cycling’s Elite Development Team status is designed to ‘bridge the gap from club teams to those operating at UCI Continental level’. Only teams which meet a set minimum criterion are selected, based on the quality of support which they offer to their riders.
Run by Mark Botteley, Brother UK–Team OnForm is a development team that blends junior riders with senior-level talents, providing a pathway to the next rung of the racing ladder.
FTP-Fulfil The Potential-Racing goes into its third season in 2025 aiming to build on its steady growth in its first two seasons. The team, run by Billy Oliver, describes itself as a rider-first squad that provides a ‘no pressure’ environment for its athletes.
Oliver’s team has been incredibly busy in the transfer market, announcing nine new signings for 2025, including Rachel Galler, 9th in the Curlew Cup in 2024.
Loughborough Lightning was established in 2021. A franchise of Loughborough University, the team competes at the top UK domestic level, racing the National Road Series and the National Circuit Series, as well as selected UCI road races.
The squad benefits from backroom support from the University, including support from experts in coaching, strength and conditioning, nutrition, performance lifestyle, physiology, physiotherapy, and performance analysis in bike fitting and training science.
Nikki Metcalfe’s squad continues for 2025. Based in the northeast of England, Team Boompods continues its commitment to developing riders and competing at the highest level of domestic racing. The 2025 National squad currently features eight confirmed riders, including UCI Continental-level recruits Lulu Bartlett and Millie Skinner, with two spots still available. Returning riders include regional champion Megan Anderson and versatile competitors like Sian Marsh.
The team also operates an umbrella squad, providing opportunities for riders focusing on disciplines such as track, time trials, and gravel. Key departure Lizzie Hermolle, their 2024 standout, moves to the UCI Continental ranks at DAS-Hutchinson, reflecting the team’s ethos of progression. The National Series remains their priority as they continue to balance nurturing young talent with showcasing experienced riders.
Headed up by women’s racing advocate Victoria Hood, the Jadan team has created a valuable pathway for younger riders stepping into the senior ranks over its ten year history. The team is sponsored by Hull companies Jadan Printing and Vive le Velo bike shop.
More to follow.
2024 CANYON Guildford Town Centre Races. Dannielle Watkinson of Jadan Vive le Velo Glasdon. Image: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
When we spoke to Sarah King in February, her vision for the London Academy stood apart. “I’ve seen the over-promising and the under-delivering. I’ve experienced the lack of transparency and honesty. I want to do things differently,” she explained. Now, as the team unveils its 2025 squad, it’s clear that King’s ethos – prioritising rider support, progression, and community – continues to drive the Academy forward.
The 2024 season proved the strength of this model. Star rider Katy Hill shone, animating the break at the Women’s CiCLE Classic and securing an impressive 16th place at the Lincoln Grand Prix. Beyond individual results, the team delivered across all levels: third place in the British Team Cup Series, notable wins at Regional and National B races, and hosting the largest-ever 4th Cat women’s field at the London Academy GP. Workshops and mentoring further cemented the Academy’s reputation as a catalyst for growth in women’s cycling.
Heading into 2025, the Academy combines continuity with fresh energy. Six new riders, including experienced competitors like Georgia Bullard and promising talents such as Emily Tanner and Lily Martin, join a re-signed core squad. Backed by trusted partners like Cyclefit and the London Leg Up Fund, the Academy remains committed to its mission: not just to race, but to grow the women’s peloton and redefine what a team can achieve. “It’s not about big changes,” says King. “It’s about doing more of the good stuff.”
The Saint Piran Women’s Race Team, an Elite Development Team in 2024, has closed its doors as part of the closure of the Saint Piran UCI Continental squad.
Solas Race Team, based in Scotland, is expanding in 2025 to include Under-23 riders alongside its junior squad, aiming to support young female cyclists transitioning from junior to senior levels. Team Manager Paul Easto emphasised the importance of providing extended development opportunities for riders. The 2025 roster will feature a mix of retained riders and new signings, with 80% of the team hailing from Scotland, strengthening ties with Scottish Cycling’s performance pathways. Additionally, partnerships with organisations like The Athlete Lab, led by Cameron Richardson and Women’s WorldTour professional Becky Storrie, will enhance rider development and education.
Rising from the ashes of the Hutchinson-Brother UK team in 2024 was the aptly named The Phoenix Collective. Compromised of five former Hutchinson-Brother UK riders, including our former journal contributor Charliiy Berry and Lydia Watts (second in the Twickenham CC Dave Peck Memorial British Cup Race last season), the team was created with what it described as “a female-centric core” and with “a fresh look, renewed sense of purpose and, above all, a desire to have fun.”
The University of Nottingham Cycling Club (UoNCC) has launched its first student-led race team, the UoN Race Team (UoNRT), for the 2025 season. The initiative, part of the UoNCC Academy, supports eight student-athletes across regional and national races, aiming to develop talent and provide a pathway to professional cycling while balancing academic commitments.
The team will compete in events like the Lincoln GP, CiCLE Classic, BUCS Championships, and East Midlands Road Race Championships. Riders benefit from the university’s sports infrastructure, including coaching, physiotherapy, and nutrition services. Focused on sustainability, UoNRT seeks to become a permanent fixture in UK domestic racing, with success measured by rider progression, race performances, and enhancing the student experience.
Liv Cycling Club – Halo Films is a youth and junior women’s cycle team based in Bristol, run by Peter Georgi. The rider list below encapsulates only the team’s junior riders.
Image: Ellen Isherwood
In: Grace Bell (London Academy), Kayla Dinnin (Solas Race Team), Iris Gray (Welwyn Wheelers CC), Elizabeth Wallace (Lee Velo (South East London))
The Shibden Hope Tech Apex has been a revelation since being established in 2023. Made up entirely of first-year juniors for its debut year, the team turned heads almost from day one of the season when Cat Ferguson usurped some of the best domestic road racers to win the Capernwray road race in early March. The team’s success has continued apace in 2024, so its no surprise to see its two biggest talents, Cat Ferguson and Imogen Wolff, heading straight to the Women’s WorldTour in 2025.
With most of the squad ‘ageing out’ to the under-23 ranks, the team has signed up another crop of extremely promising youngsters, including serial under-16 winner Phoebe Taylor. There will be little rest over the winter for this new crop with the team tasking them with doing upwards of 20 hours on the bike and two gym sessions a week, as well as balancing their school work and social life.
2024 East Cleveland Classic, Imogen Wolff. Image: Andrew Smith/SWpix.com
Solas Race Team, based in Scotland, is expanding in 2025 to include Under-23 riders alongside its junior squad, aiming to support young female cyclists transitioning from junior to senior levels. Team Manager Paul Easto emphasised the importance of providing extended development opportunities for riders. The 2025 roster will feature a mix of retained riders and new signings, with 80% of the team hailing from Scotland, strengthening ties with Scottish Cycling’s performance pathways. Additionally, partnerships with organisations like The Athlete Lab, led by Cameron Richardson and Women’s WorldTour professional Becky Storrie, will enhance rider development and education.
A junior team with strong women’s and men’s squads that competes across Europe and the UK in its distinctive green kit. In a landmark move for British junior cycling, the team announced a pioneering partnership with the prestigious Team dsm-firmenich for 2024, encompassing their men’s and women’s WorldTour teams and development team.
Tofauti Everyone Active’s 2025 junior women’s squad reflects a strong mix of continuity and new talent, underscoring the team’s commitment to development and progression. Key returning riders include Abigail Miller, Aliyah Rafferty, Becky Gardiner, Ella Tandy, and Erin Boothman, who provide a stable core for the squad. Among the exciting new additions are American Lidia Cusack, the USA junior time trial champion, marking Tofauti’s first non-British Isles recruit, and promising British talents Megan Cherry, Seren Thomas, Gabby McHugh, and Ruby Isaac, each from respected youth programmes.
Several standout riders have moved on to new opportunities. Carys Lloyd has signed a prestigious three-year contract with Movistar, making her the first Tofauti graduate to step directly into the WorldTour. Lucy Benezet Minns joins Lotto Dstny, while Mari Porton and Amelia Cebak remain in the UK, aligning with Alba Development and Pro-Noctis, respectively. These transitions highlight Tofauti’s role as a springboard to professional ranks and its dedication to nurturing talent.
An overview of what we know so far about how the women’s domestic road race teams are shaping up for 2025. A similar overview for men’s domestic teams can be found here.
This is a ‘live’ post, so expect frequent updates, especially as we get the post up and running – this is very much a work in progress, so check back in regularly to see all the latest.
Latest update: 14:00, 4 February 2025
Featured photo: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
UCI Continental teams
There were a record six UCI Continental British women’s team in 2024, with Alba Road Development Team and Pro-Noctis – 200o Coffee – Hargreaves Contracting both stepping up from elite status and Hess Cycling Team switching to a British licence. However, with Britain’s biggest team, Lifeplus-Wahoo, closing its doors, the UK’s UCI team presence looks set to shrink.
DAS-Hutchinson
DAS-Hutchinson approaches the 2025 season with a streamlined 15-rider roster, including seven new signings, as they look to build on the successes of 2024. This marks their second season following the merger of DAS-Handsling and Hutchinson-Brother. The UCI Continental squad is aiming for a dual focus: maintaining a strong presence in the UK National Road and Circuit Series while tackling an ambitious European racing programme.
Team manager Simon Howes reaffirms the team’s commitment to the domestic scene, pointing to their impressive results last year, including victories in National-level races and team classification wins in both the National Road and Circuit Series. Despite the departure of long-term sponsor Brother, new partnerships have been secured, ensuring the team’s plans remain on track. “We’ve always supported UK racing, and we’ll do as much as we can,” says Howes, also noting the challenges of competing on multiple fronts across Europe.
With eight riders remaining from 2024, including standouts like Curlew Cup winner Robyn Clay and Tammy Miller, the team retains a solid core. Clay, who missed much of 2024 due to injury, is expected to take another step forward, while Miller and Sophie Lewis bring further depth to the squad. New signings such as Ruby Oakes, Lizzie Hermolle, and Ellie Parry inject fresh talent, balancing youth with experience, and ensuring the team can continue its tradition of developing riders to progress in their careers.
Howes acknowledges the logistical challenges of managing an expansive race calendar but sees the team’s international scope as a key strength. A more selective race programme in 2025 aims to maximise competitiveness while maintaining their reputation as a team that provides opportunities for riders to excel. Recruitment, he explains, is based on results, personality, and ambition, with the team offering flexibility for riders pursuing dual goals, such as Olympic track racing.
Read more here.
In: Lizi Brooke (Pro-Noctis-200 Degress Coffee-Hargreaves Contracing), Natalie Grinczer (Roland), Elizabeth Hermolle (Team Boompods), Ellie Parry (Grouwels-Watersley R&D Road Team), Ruby Oakes (Cycling Club Isle of Man), Aoife O’Brien (Cyclingteam Belco / Van Eyck), Libby Smithson (Doltcini-O’Shea), Julia Van Bokhoven (VolkerWessels Women’s Pro Cycling Team)
Re-signed: Robyn Clay, Tiffany Keep, Lucy Lee, Sophie Lewis, Tamsin Miller, Alice Sharpe, Nora Tveit, Morven Yeoman
Out: Sian Botteley (Smurfit Westrock CT), Francesca Hall (Team Bridgelane), Charlotte Hodgkins-Byrne (Unknown), Mia Griffin (Roland), Caoimhe O’Brien (Cynisca Cycling), Darcie Richards (Retired), Ruth Shier (Unknown), Sammie Stuart (Retired), Sophie Thackray (Paul Milnes – Bradford Olympic RC), Vera Vilaça (tbc), Sannah Zaman (O’Shea Race Team)
AC O’Shea Racing
Run by Pat Hayes, O’Shea Racing began in 2021. Previously called AWOL O’Shea and Doltcini O’Shea, the team has steadily grown its international race programme, accompanied by an increasingly international roster.
More to follow.
In: Isabella Escalera (Torelli), Emilie Fortin (Cynisca Cycling), Sophie Holmes (Saint Piran WRT), Frøya Knox (Grouwels-Watersley R&D Road Team), Ida Kirckau Ketelson (Team Rytger – Carl Ras), Katie Scott (Spectra Racing), Yilla Treels (Grouwels-Watersley R&D Road Team), Ella Wahlström (Grouwels-Watersley R&D Road Team), Sannah Zaman (DAS-Hutchinson-Brother UK)
Re-signed: Isabel Darvill, Camille Devigne, S’Annara Grove, Tilde Hammarström, Connie Hayes, Matilda McKibben, Cindy Pomares
Out: Georgia Bullard (London Academy), Jessica Finney (Portsmouth North End CC), Nofar Maoz (Unknown), Kelly Murphy (Unknown), Niamh Murphy (Smurfit Westrock CT), Hayley Simmonds (Unknown), Libby Smithson (DAS-Hutchinson-Brother UK), Adar Shriki (Unknown), Elina Tasane (Unknown), Elena Wu-Yan (Hess Cycling Team)
Handsling Alba Development Road Team
Bob Lyons’ athlete-centric, Scottish-focused development outfit has a grand five-year plan to create a two-tier team structure: a fully salaried UCI Continental Team, with a development team sitting underneath.
After a breakthrough 2024 season at the UCI Continental level, Scottish team Alba Development Road Team has unveiled its 2025 squad, as well as a new title sponsor, Handsling. Under Bob Lyons’ leadership, the team achieved unprecedented success, with Eilidh Shaw claiming both the National Road Series and National Circuit Series titles. With Shaw moving to the UAE Development Team and several other riders departing, the team is aiming to build on its success by focusing on rider development and expanding its European racing programme.
Key returning riders include Keira Bond, Lauren Dickson, Arianne Holland, Beth Morrow, Abi Plowman, and Amelia Tyler, who all showed promise in 2024. The squad has also strengthened with five new signings, including El King and Maddie Leech from Lifeplus-Wahoo, and experienced track star Neah Evans. Lyons emphasised that the team’s ethos remains the same: “The ethos and goals of the team remain unchanged, in that we are totally focused on the development of the riders in order to deliver them to WorldTour. The depth and balance of the squad for 2025 give us a lot of flexibility in regard to how we achieve such objectives.”
Read more here.
In: Neah Evans (Torelli), Amy Gornall (Pro-Noctis – 200 Degrees – Hargreaves Contracting), Eluned King (Lifeplus-Wahoo), Madelaine Leech (Lifeplus-Wahoo), Mari Porton (Tofauti Everyone Active)
Re-signed: Keira Bond, Lauren Dickson, Arianne Holland, Beth Morrow, Abi Plowman, Amelia Tyler
Out: Daisy Barnes (Carlisle Reivers Cycling Club), Lulu Bartlett (Team Boompods), Emma Matthews (Sowerby Sunday Club), Erin Murphy (Retired), Eilidh Shaw (UAE Development Team), Millie Skinner (Team Boompods), Victoria Smith (AeroCoach), Evie White (Retired)
Hess Cycling Team
The Hess Cycling Team began in 2023 and raced under a Luxembourg licence for its first season. Owned by the London-based Swiss businessman Rolf Hess, the team switched to a British racing licence in 2024 and has ambitions to become the first British Women’s WorldTour team.
The team has announced a three-year sponsorship agreement with OFX, an international money transfer company.
More to follow.
In: Danique Braam (Chevalmeire), Elisabeth Ebras (AG Insurance – Soudal NXTG), Natalie Quinn (EF-Oatly-Cannondale), Betty Hasse (CCB – Alpine Carbon p/b Levine Law Group Women’s Cycling), Laura Lizette (UAE Development Team), Maeve Plouff (Team dsm-firmenich PostNL), Kate Richardson (Lifeplus Wahoo), Elena Wu-Yan (Doltcini-O’Shea), Esther Wong (Shibden Apex RT)
Re-signed: Grace Lister, Alice McWilliam, Holly Ramsay, Liv Wenzel
Out: Txell Claret Bonmarti, Sara Casasola, Imogen Cotter (Retired), Nicole Frain (Ridley Racing Team), Rotem Gavinovitz, Annika Liehner, Clara Lundmark, Johanna Martini, Laura Süßemilch, Marjolein Van’t Geloof (Arkéa – B&B Hotels Women)
Lifeplus-Wahoo
Tom Varney’s Lifeplus-Wahoo team was the leading British women’s teams before its sudden closure in August 2024.
The team’s termination leaves 11 riders, the majority of them under-23s, searching for a new home in 2025.
Out: Kristýna Burlová (Team Dukla Praha), Heidi Franz (Cynisca Cycling), Alicia Gonzalez (St Michel – Preference Home – Auber93), Ella Jamieson (Massi-Baix Ter), Ella Harris, Eluned King (Alba Development Road Team), Madelaine Leech (Alba Development Road Team), Kate Richardson (Hess Cycling Team), Kaja Rysz (Roland), Karin Söderqvist, Babette van der Wolf (EF-Oatly-Cannondale)
Smurfit Westrock Cycling Team
Rick Lister’s Finish Line Racing project evolves from Pro-Noctis – 200 Degrees Coffee -Hargreaves Contracting Ltd to Smurfit Westrock Cycling Team in 2025 thanks to a new three-year deal with the Irish packaging giant. The team stepped up to UCI Continental level in 2024, and the new sponsorship agreement should elevate the team further in 2025.
The team welcomes six new riders for 2025, including juniors Amelia Cebak, Lucy Glover, and Alice Colling, who bring impressive results in road racing and cyclocross. Grace Reynolds, a breakthrough rider in 2024, adds firepower, while Niamh Murphy and Lucy Nelson bring valuable European racing experience. Experienced rider Sian Botteley also joins to bolster the squad’s depth.
Core riders like Jo Tindley, Lucy Harris, and Lucy Gadd will continue, maintaining stability within the team. Several other important riders re-sign too, ensuring the spine of the squad’s continuity. Notable exits include Amy Gornall, Lizi Brooke, and Zoe Langham, the latter retiring after years with the team.
Late signing Alex Morrice is an eye-catching addition. The former Zwift Academy is an outstanding talent and could thrive if given the leadership opportunities she deserves.
Read more here.
In: Sian Botteley (DAS-Hutchinson-Brother UK), Amelia Cebak (Tofauti Everyone Active), Alice Colling (Shibden Apex RT), Lucy Glover (Shibden Apex RT), Alex Morrice (CANYON//SRAM), Lucy Nelson (Torelli), Grace Reynolds (Brother UK – Team OnForm)
Re-signed: Bexy Dew, Lucy Ellmore, Lucy Gadd, Lucy Harris, Annabel Ramsay, Jo Tindley
Out: Lizi Brooke (DAS-Hutchinson-Brother UK), Jessy Carveth (Unknown), Amy Gornall (Alba Development Road Team), Maddie Heywood (Loughborough Lightning), Zoe Langham (Retired), Lowri Richards (Wales Racing Academy)
Elite Development Teams
British Cycling’s Elite Development Team status is designed to ‘bridge the gap from club teams to those operating at UCI Continental level’. Only teams which meet a set minimum criterion are selected, based on the quality of support which they offer to their riders.
Brother UK-Team OnForm
Run by Mark Botteley, Brother UK–Team OnForm is a development team that blends junior riders with senior-level talents, providing a pathway to the next rung of the racing ladder.
More to follow.
In (Senior): Caitlin Harvey (Doltcini – Cycle Division), Cecilia Hime (Paradigm Cycles). Ellie Mitchinson (Montezuma’s Eventrex Race Team)
In (Junior): Bethany Goodwin (Louth Cycle Centre RT), Isabelle Goodwin (Louth Cycle Centre RT), Eleina McFadden (East Bradford CC), Ayesha Vose (ESV Manchester)
Re-signed (Senior): Phoebe Barker, Ellen Bennett, Lily Brindle, Rachel Brown, Lotty Dawson, Madeleine Gammons, Ellen Inglis, Hope Inglis, Amber Junker-Brameld, Electra Morris, Helena Shapton, Rosie Simmons, Mia Smith
Re-signed (Junior): Rebecca Carter, Stella Smith, Amelia Staunton
Out: Tuva Mauland, Grace Reynolds (Smurfit Westrock CT)
FTP-Fulfil The Potential-Racing
FTP-Fulfil The Potential-Racing goes into its third season in 2025 aiming to build on its steady growth in its first two seasons. The team, run by Billy Oliver, describes itself as a rider-first squad that provides a ‘no pressure’ environment for its athletes.
Oliver’s team has been incredibly busy in the transfer market, announcing nine new signings for 2025, including Rachel Galler, 9th in the Curlew Cup in 2024.
More to follow.
In: Rebecca Babbage (Team Boompods), Anastasia Bowler (Saint Piran WRT), Ella Brown (Cowley Road Condors), Laura Davies (Jadan Vive le Velo), Rachel Galler (Saint Piran WRT), Elektra Georgiakakis (FTP Fusion), Sasha Halsey (London Dynamo RT), Gemma Mitchell (Team Boompods), Rebecca Richards (Saint Piran WRT)
Re-signed: Anna Boniface, Harriet Evans, Vanessa Fursden, Bekki Gowan, Rebecca Hair, Lousie Hart, Jennifer Hudson, Marie-Louise Kertzman, Claire Nott, Clare Parkin, Mathilde Pauls, Laura Pittard, Elizabeth Sanders, Katherine Sheridan, Rosie Wayland
Out: Floren Scrafton (Rio Miera – Cantabria Deporte), Rebecca Seal, Sasha Smith, Vivienne Tomlin
Loughborough Lightning
Loughborough Lightning was established in 2021. A franchise of Loughborough University, the team competes at the top UK domestic level, racing the National Road Series and the National Circuit Series, as well as selected UCI road races.
The squad benefits from backroom support from the University, including support from experts in coaching, strength and conditioning, nutrition, performance lifestyle, physiology, physiotherapy, and performance analysis in bike fitting and training science.
More to follow.
In: Maddie Heywood (Pro-Noctis – 200 Degrees Coffee – Hargreaves Contracting)
Re-signed: Eva Callinan, Penny Colloff, Elena Day, Jayati Hine, Jenny Holl, Miriam Jessett, Olivia Kelly, Roisin Lally, Georgia Lancaster, Alice Lethbridge, Morgan Newberry, Georgina Oakley
Out: Sophie Coldwell (unknown), Philippa Draper (unknown), Anya Tamplin (unknown), Mary Wilkinson (Yorkshire Road Club)
Team Boompods
Nikki Metcalfe’s squad continues for 2025. Based in the northeast of England, Team Boompods continues its commitment to developing riders and competing at the highest level of domestic racing. The 2025 National squad currently features eight confirmed riders, including UCI Continental-level recruits Lulu Bartlett and Millie Skinner, with two spots still available. Returning riders include regional champion Megan Anderson and versatile competitors like Sian Marsh.
The team also operates an umbrella squad, providing opportunities for riders focusing on disciplines such as track, time trials, and gravel. Key departure Lizzie Hermolle, their 2024 standout, moves to the UCI Continental ranks at DAS-Hutchinson, reflecting the team’s ethos of progression. The National Series remains their priority as they continue to balance nurturing young talent with showcasing experienced riders.
Read more here.
In: Lulu Bartlett (Alba Development Road Team), Hannah Bayes (Saint Piran WRT), Gabriella Butler (Glasgow Track Racing Club), Katie-Anne Calton (Saint Piran WRT), Annabelle Greenwood (Unattached), Joanne Rea (Team Kirkley Cycles), Millie Skinner (Alba Development Road Team), Rebecca Woodvine (RT23 – runandride.co.uk)
Re-signed: Megan Anderson, Bethany Bennett, Amy Drysdale, Sian Marsh
Out: Rebecca Babbage (FTP-Fulfil the Potential-Racing Team), Hannah Farran (The Pheonix Collective), Amy Graham (Unknown), Elizabeth Hermolle (DAS-Hutchinson), Lauren Langham (Unknown), Gemma Mitchell (FTP-Fulfil the Potential-Racing Team), Lauren Robinson (Moonglu CC), Lauren Watson (Unknown), Megan Walker (Unknown)
Other elite teams
Jadan Vive le Velo
Headed up by women’s racing advocate Victoria Hood, the Jadan team has created a valuable pathway for younger riders stepping into the senior ranks over its ten year history. The team is sponsored by Hull companies Jadan Printing and Vive le Velo bike shop.
More to follow.
In:
Re-signed:
Out: Rebecca Clowes (The Phoenix Collective), Laura Davies (FTP-Fulfil the Potential-Racing Team)
Unknown: Emily Chilton, Skye Davidson, Kristie Drakeford, Lola Ellis, Nicola Greenwood, Izzie Johnson, Jen McMahon, Beth Macrae, Rebekah Nash, Hebe Picking, Louise Scupham, Courtney Smith, Abbie Taylor, Dannielle Watkinson, Harriet Wilson
London Academy
When we spoke to Sarah King in February, her vision for the London Academy stood apart. “I’ve seen the over-promising and the under-delivering. I’ve experienced the lack of transparency and honesty. I want to do things differently,” she explained. Now, as the team unveils its 2025 squad, it’s clear that King’s ethos – prioritising rider support, progression, and community – continues to drive the Academy forward.
The 2024 season proved the strength of this model. Star rider Katy Hill shone, animating the break at the Women’s CiCLE Classic and securing an impressive 16th place at the Lincoln Grand Prix. Beyond individual results, the team delivered across all levels: third place in the British Team Cup Series, notable wins at Regional and National B races, and hosting the largest-ever 4th Cat women’s field at the London Academy GP. Workshops and mentoring further cemented the Academy’s reputation as a catalyst for growth in women’s cycling.
Heading into 2025, the Academy combines continuity with fresh energy. Six new riders, including experienced competitors like Georgia Bullard and promising talents such as Emily Tanner and Lily Martin, join a re-signed core squad. Backed by trusted partners like Cyclefit and the London Leg Up Fund, the Academy remains committed to its mission: not just to race, but to grow the women’s peloton and redefine what a team can achieve. “It’s not about big changes,” says King. “It’s about doing more of the good stuff.”
Read more here.
In: Georgia Bullard (Doltcini-O’Shea), Grace Davies (Project 51), Lily Martin (Unattached), Ailsa McLagen (Saint Piran WRT), Grace Sargeant (Waldy Wheelers), Emily Tanner (Woolwich CC)
Re-signed: Eleanor Bolton, Fran Brown, Alice Connor, Jasmine Cornelius, Louise Davidson, Sasha Dyke, Catherine Hadfield, Clare Jackson, Emma Jane Hornsby, Savannah Morgan, Iona Mitchell, Emma Naylor, Lucy Neatham, Esme Wiley, Miriam Bullock (Team Support), Jamie Lee-Wright (Team Support)
Out: Grace Bell (Liv CC-Halo Films), Anna Brearley (Reading CC), Rosie Day (retired), Faith Hammond (retired), Katy Hill (VC Morteau Montbenoit)
Mud Dock Racing
More to follow.
In: Mia Rutterford (Tofauti Everyone Active)
Saint Piran WRT
The Saint Piran Women’s Race Team, an Elite Development Team in 2024, has closed its doors as part of the closure of the Saint Piran UCI Continental squad.
Out: Hannah Bayes (Team Boompods), Anastasia Bowler (FTP-Fulfil the Potential-Racing Team), Katie-Anne Calton (Team Boompods), Rachel Galler (FTP-Fulfil the Potential-Racing Team), Sophie Holmes (O’Shea Racing), Ailsa McLagen (London Academy), Elizabeth McKinnon (Unknown)
Solas Race Team
Solas Race Team, based in Scotland, is expanding in 2025 to include Under-23 riders alongside its junior squad, aiming to support young female cyclists transitioning from junior to senior levels. Team Manager Paul Easto emphasised the importance of providing extended development opportunities for riders. The 2025 roster will feature a mix of retained riders and new signings, with 80% of the team hailing from Scotland, strengthening ties with Scottish Cycling’s performance pathways. Additionally, partnerships with organisations like The Athlete Lab, led by Cameron Richardson and Women’s WorldTour professional Becky Storrie, will enhance rider development and education.
Read more here.
In (U23): Sophie Smith (Cycling Club Isle of Man)
Re-signed (U23): Isla Easto, Molly Evans, Isla McCutcheon, Evelyn Field
Out: Kayla Dinnin (Liv CC-Halo Films), Daisy Taylor (Royal Albert CC)
See below for the junior squad.
Spectra Racing
More to follow.
In:
Re-signed:
Out: Katie Scott (O’Shea Racing), Laura Senior (Unknown)
Unknown: Xan Crees, Samantha Fawcett
The Phoenix Collective
Rising from the ashes of the Hutchinson-Brother UK team in 2024 was the aptly named The Phoenix Collective. Compromised of five former Hutchinson-Brother UK riders, including our former journal contributor Charliiy Berry and Lydia Watts (second in the Twickenham CC Dave Peck Memorial British Cup Race last season), the team was created with what it described as “a female-centric core” and with “a fresh look, renewed sense of purpose and, above all, a desire to have fun.”
More to follow.
In: Nicola Bathe (Unattached), Rebecca Clowes (Jadan Vive le Velo), Hannah Farran (Team Boompods), Lucie Lagesse (Unattached), Heather Mayer (Unattached), Philippa Mitchell (London Dynamo)
Re-signed: Ione Johnson, Lydia Watts
Out: Jessie Carridge (Unknown), Molly Patch (Unknown)
Unknown: Charlotte Berry
UoN Race Team
The University of Nottingham Cycling Club (UoNCC) has launched its first student-led race team, the UoN Race Team (UoNRT), for the 2025 season. The initiative, part of the UoNCC Academy, supports eight student-athletes across regional and national races, aiming to develop talent and provide a pathway to professional cycling while balancing academic commitments.
The team will compete in events like the Lincoln GP, CiCLE Classic, BUCS Championships, and East Midlands Road Race Championships. Riders benefit from the university’s sports infrastructure, including coaching, physiotherapy, and nutrition services. Focused on sustainability, UoNRT seeks to become a permanent fixture in UK domestic racing, with success measured by rider progression, race performances, and enhancing the student experience.
Read more here.
In: Hannah Clough, Isabel Ellis,Matilda Gurney, Flo Lissaman
Junior teams
Liv CC-Halo Films
Liv Cycling Club – Halo Films is a youth and junior women’s cycle team based in Bristol, run by Peter Georgi. The rider list below encapsulates only the team’s junior riders.
In: Grace Bell (London Academy), Kayla Dinnin (Solas Race Team), Iris Gray (Welwyn Wheelers CC), Elizabeth Wallace (Lee Velo (South East London))
Re-signed: Carys Blowers, Megan Lloyd, Jess Pickavance, Jessica Rich
Out: Greta Carey (Pedalon.co.uk)
Unknown: Millie Jenkins, Ellie Mitchinson
Shibden Hope Tech Apex
The Shibden Hope Tech Apex has been a revelation since being established in 2023. Made up entirely of first-year juniors for its debut year, the team turned heads almost from day one of the season when Cat Ferguson usurped some of the best domestic road racers to win the Capernwray road race in early March. The team’s success has continued apace in 2024, so its no surprise to see its two biggest talents, Cat Ferguson and Imogen Wolff, heading straight to the Women’s WorldTour in 2025.
With most of the squad ‘ageing out’ to the under-23 ranks, the team has signed up another crop of extremely promising youngsters, including serial under-16 winner Phoebe Taylor. There will be little rest over the winter for this new crop with the team tasking them with doing upwards of 20 hours on the bike and two gym sessions a week, as well as balancing their school work and social life.
In: Aelwen Davies (TORQ Performance), Maia Howell (Matlock CC), Anna Lloyd (VC Londres), Mabli Phillips (Maindy Flyers CC), Millie Salmon (Clifton CC), Phoebe Taylor (ESV Manchester)
Re-signed: Arabella Blackburn, Evie Smith
Out: Alice Colling (Smurfit Westrock CT), Cat Ferguson (Movistar), Lucy Glover (Smurfit Westrock CT), Isabel Mayes (Unknown), Imogen Wolff (Team Visma | Lease a Bike), Esther Wong (Hess Cycling Team)
Solas Race Team
Solas Race Team, based in Scotland, is expanding in 2025 to include Under-23 riders alongside its junior squad, aiming to support young female cyclists transitioning from junior to senior levels. Team Manager Paul Easto emphasised the importance of providing extended development opportunities for riders. The 2025 roster will feature a mix of retained riders and new signings, with 80% of the team hailing from Scotland, strengthening ties with Scottish Cycling’s performance pathways. Additionally, partnerships with organisations like The Athlete Lab, led by Cameron Richardson and Women’s WorldTour professional Becky Storrie, will enhance rider development and education.
Read more here.
In (Junior): Abigail Chaplain (Discovery Junior Cycling Club), Tess Byrne (West Lothian Clarion CC)
Re-signed (Junior); Harriet Hendry, Millie Thomson
Out: Kayla Dinnin (Liv CC-Halo Films), Daisy Taylor (Royal Albert CC)
See above for the under-23 squad.
Tofauti Everyone Active Majaco
A junior team with strong women’s and men’s squads that competes across Europe and the UK in its distinctive green kit. In a landmark move for British junior cycling, the team announced a pioneering partnership with the prestigious Team dsm-firmenich for 2024, encompassing their men’s and women’s WorldTour teams and development team.
Tofauti Everyone Active’s 2025 junior women’s squad reflects a strong mix of continuity and new talent, underscoring the team’s commitment to development and progression. Key returning riders include Abigail Miller, Aliyah Rafferty, Becky Gardiner, Ella Tandy, and Erin Boothman, who provide a stable core for the squad. Among the exciting new additions are American Lidia Cusack, the USA junior time trial champion, marking Tofauti’s first non-British Isles recruit, and promising British talents Megan Cherry, Seren Thomas, Gabby McHugh, and Ruby Isaac, each from respected youth programmes.
Several standout riders have moved on to new opportunities. Carys Lloyd has signed a prestigious three-year contract with Movistar, making her the first Tofauti graduate to step directly into the WorldTour. Lucy Benezet Minns joins Lotto Dstny, while Mari Porton and Amelia Cebak remain in the UK, aligning with Alba Development and Pro-Noctis, respectively. These transitions highlight Tofauti’s role as a springboard to professional ranks and its dedication to nurturing talent.
Read more here.
In: Lidia Cusack (DC Devo, USA), Megan Cherry (Leicester Forest CC), Seren Thomas (Maindy Flyers), Gabby McHugh (VC Londres), Ruby Isaac (Welland Valley CC)
Re-signed: Erin Boothman, Rebecca Gardiner, Abigail Miller, Aliyah Rafferty, Ella Tandy
Out: Lucy Benezet-Minns (Lotto Ladies), Amelia Cebak (Smurfit Westrock CT), Carys Lloyd (Movistar), Mari Porton (Alba Development Road Team), Mia Rutterford (Mud Dock Racing)
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