It seems like there’s a team signing announcement every time we open our inbox right now, so here’s who’s gone where in the hokey cokey so far.
Cami Nogueira to Propain
Propain bolsters its Freeride credentials some more, adding Argentinian sender Cami Nogueira to the line up. Cami has ridden Proving Grounds, Freeride Fiesta and Red Bull Formation. Women’s Freeride is taking off, and it’s great to see Propain getting behind that.
Madison Saracen Development Team returns for 2023
The launchpad for some well known British stars, Madison Saracen has brought back its Development Team for 2023. Riding will be George Madley racing in Youth, Felix Griffiths as a first year Youth and Liv Taylor who will be first year Juvenile.
Matt Simmonds, Madison Saracen Development Team Manager said: “I am so excited to be a part of this program to assist and develop upcoming UK talent. Having experienced the level of support Madison provides, I’m confident we can achieve success and can’t wait for the team to get stuck into the new season.”
George at 15 years old will be looking to develop this season before stepping up to the World Cup circuit as a junior next season. Liv, 12, and Felix, 14, are a bit younger so will be using the next couple of years as an opportunity to learn and develop to give them the best possible opportunity to step up to World Cups when they are old enough.
Greg Williamson
Two-time British DH Champion Greg Williamson joins Madison Saracen, bringing a decade of Elite racing experience to the team. Will Longden, Madison Saracen Team Manager, said: “It’s fantastic that Greg is joining the team this year, as British Champion and a well-respected rider worldwide, he makes the perfect team mate to Matt Walker. Both have the experience and respect to bring the best out in each other and I’m sure we are going to have a lot of fun along the way. It’s a big year for the World Cup as Warner Brothers Discovery come in to rejuvenate the series with some exciting new changes and plans that we’re all looking forward to. Along with this, the World Championships in Fort William Scotland, Greg’s homeland, is going to be an amazing event and a focus of our racing year. Bring it on!”
Jordan Williams to Specialized
Leaving Madison Saracen is Junior World Champion, Jordan Williams, who heads to Specialized.
Brooke Trine and DJ Brandt to Nukeproof
Nukeproof also bolsters its Freeride credentials with the signing of Brooke Trine and DJ Brandt. Both are US signings that Nukeproof will be hoping helps its 2023 efforts to break into the American market.
In 2019, Brooke did what many of us wish we had the courage (and skill) to do — she quit her successful career in corporate America to chase the dream of professional mountain biking. Hailing from Ohio, with roots grounded in the dirt jumps of the famous Ray’s Indoor Bike Park in Cleveland, Brooke is a regular sight women’s Freeride circuit. Starting with the inaugural women’s Speed & Style event at Crankworx Whistler 2019, Brooke has had notable appearances at Freeride Fiesta, the Hangtime Jump Jam and several stops of the Women’s Slopestyle Tour.
From Colorado but now living in southern Utah (near Virgin, of course), DJ’s roots in Freeride are in skateparks and on the BMX bike — inspiration that’s obvious in his techy riding on big desert lines. He’s landed on the podium at Proving Grounds (and won the Best Style award), appeared in the 2021 X Games Real MTB video contest and has ridden in events such as Darkfest, Freeride Fiesta, Crankworx and more.
Ben Moore to Orbea
Ben Moore joins Orbea, saying: ‘I love ALL types of bikes. The thrill all genres of cycling gives me is something I can’t imagine living without. I love racing everything from Enduro through to steeper gravity riding and long training rides on the road are a big thing for me. I am beyond excited to start my life with Orbea, I know some big race wins are on the cards and can’t wait to get to work’.
Kyle Strait to Vitus
Two time Red Bull Rampage winner Kyle Strait makes a move to Vitus. He’ll be continuing his recovery from his broken back last year, riding a whole range of bikes from the Vitus line up, and fronting up the roster of sponsored riders. He’ll also be helping with bike development.
Amy Morrison joins Transition Bikes
Amy Morrison, three time US Enduro National Champion and high school teacher, moves from Polygon to Transition. She’ll be partnering up with factory rider Marco Osborne to take on a range of enduro races in the USA and abroad.
Lachlan Blair goes his own way
Lachlan Blair leaves Orange Bikes, putting together his own sponsors. So far he’s announced Deviate as his bike sponsor, and Hunt Wheels as his, er, wheel sponsor.
Isla Short back on a team: joins Ghost Factory Racing
After going her own way and doing all her own admin, Isla is back on a factory team, with all the support that entails. Ghost Factory Racing will be based in Germany, and this year is an all women line up.
There are still more teams to be confirmed, and more riders that look like they’re still to announce their signing for the year. Have you heard any good rumours? Head to the comments!
You must be logged in to reply to this topic.