The future of cycling is here, and it's hungry! Project Echelon Racing is betting big on fresh talent, injecting five new riders into their roster as they gear up for the 2026 season. But here's the kicker: this isn't just about adding bodies; it's a strategic shift. While adding riders, they're actually downsizing the squad from 15 to 12. Intrigued? You should be.
What’s fueling this decision? According to founder and Race Director Eric Hill, it's a potent combination of promising young racers and the increasing opportunities for competitive racing right here in the US. He believes this strategy will allow the team to be more focused and competitive.
Leading the charge of new recruits are some impressive names. We're talking about none other than four-time Pan-American Cyclocross champion Eric Brunner and Canadian U23 road national champion Jérôme Gauthier. These aren't just rookies; they're proven winners ready to make an impact.
But the talent pool doesn't stop there. Project Echelon is also welcoming emerging US stars Quinn Felton and Luke Elphingstone, alongside the powerfully built Tim McBirney, described as a "big diesel engine." This infusion of energy and skill aims to propel the team to new heights.
Now, let's talk about the returning veterans. Caleb Classen and Ethan Craine, both 24, are back in the saddle. Classen, with two stage podiums at the Tour of the Gila and another at the Volta a Portugal, brings a proven track record of performance. Craine, the team's only non-North American rider from New Zealand, will continue his role as a crucial lead-out man for the team's veteran sprinters. This is a critical role, setting up teammates for victory. The team is also bringing back Québec time trial champion Laurent Gervais, alongside US riders Brendan Rhim, Stephen Bassett, Colby Lange, and Richard Arnopol.
This upcoming year marks the ninth season for the US-based squad and their fourth consecutive year competing at the Continental level. This consistency and experience, combined with the fresh blood, positions Project Echelon Racing for a potentially groundbreaking season.
Here's the complete Project Echelon Racing 2026 roster:
- Ricky Arnopol (USA)
- Stephen Bassett (USA)
- Eric Brunner (USA)
- Caleb Classen (USA)
- Ethan Craine (NZL)
- Luke Elphingstone (USA)
- Quinn Felton (USA)
- Jérôme Gauthier (CAN)
- Laurent Gervais (CAN)
- Kieran Haug (USA)
- Colby Lange (USA)
- Tim McBirney (USA)
Now, here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that downsizing while adding so many unproven riders is a risky move. Will the team's experience be diluted by the influx of new talent, or will the veterans be able to effectively mentor and guide the younger riders? It's a gamble, but one that Project Echelon Racing clearly believes will pay off.
What do you think? Is Project Echelon Racing making the right call by focusing on young talent, even if it means a smaller overall team size? Are they prioritizing domestic racing enough? And how will this strategy impact their performance on the international stage? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We're eager to hear your perspective on this bold move.
