Lizzie Deignan to headline new Trek women’s team
The U.S.-based bike manufacturer announced it will own and manage a new women's road racing team starting in 2019.
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Trek will field a new women’s team for 2019, and the bicycle manufacturer is aiming for the squad to race in the UCI Women’s WorldTour.
The creation of the road team was announced Monday, the first rest day of the Tour de France. One rider — former world champion Lizzie Deignan of Great Britain — is confirmed on the roster. Other riders will be announced August 1.
“Trek is committed to changing the world by inspiring more people to ride, and our world-class women’s road team will be filled with passionate racers who are out to inspire,” Trek president John Burke said. “We’re putting full support behind our athletes so they can focus on their profession and be the best they can be.”
The squad will have a sport director, assistant sport director, and support staff. Luca Guercilena, manager of the Trek-Segafredo men’s WorldTour team, will provide support to the women’s squad.
The Waterloo, Wisconsin-based Trek will own and manage the team.
“We’ve learned from owning other Trek Factory Racing programs that direct support and involvement from Trek is good for athletes, partners, and staff. It creates an environment where everyone thrives,” Trek’s sports marketing director Tim Vanderjeugd said.
“Trek Factory Racing has strong female athletes in enduro, downhill, cross country, and cyclocross. This new model is a first for women’s road cycling.”
Trek Factory Racing also has professional mountain biking, cyclocross, and triathlon programs.