Jayco AlUla is no longer in trouble. The men's and women's teams of the Australian outfit were missing from the provisional list of license applications published by the UCI last week. This was because the Aussies did not have the required bank guarantees. Team manager Brent Copeland informed riders and staff on Thursday that the issues have been resolved, reports WielerFlits.
In the past week and a half, many rumors circulated about Jayco AlUla and Liv AlUla Jayco. These ranged from the complete disappearance of the teams to continuing in a scaled-down form. Because both teams were absent from the UCI's provisional license application list, riders from both squads are free to negotiate with other teams according to UCI regulations. Copeland reportedly expressed in a conversation that he appreciates the commitment of riders and staff to stay. According to our sources, he also apologized to everyone involved for the uncertainty.
Team owner Ryan relents
Confidential talks with partners are said to be the basis of this, according to insiders. It has taken some time to smooth out those wrinkles. A solution has been found that allows the WorldTeams to continue in 2026 as well. Sponsors AlUla and Giant have reportedly made significant efforts to secure the future. Ultimately, the final decision lay with team owner Gerry Ryan, who gave his approval to continue at least through next year. Jayco is the company of the extremely wealthy Ryan, who has been investing in his team for many years.
With this, Jayco AlUla and Liv AlUla Jayco are saved for the time being. Both teams will remain in the peloton in 2026. Although the first license application deadline of October 15 was missed, the second deadline is coming up on Monday, November 3. Sources close to the team say all the necessary paperwork is complete and has been submitted to the UCI.
Among the men under contract for 2026 are Ben O’Connor, Michael Matthews, Luke Plapp, Belgians Amaury Capiot and Dries De Bondt, and Dutch riders Koen Bouwman and Jelte Krijnsen. The women's team includes Noä Jansen, Jeanne Korevaar, Silke Smulders, and Quinty Ton. Tristan Hoffman and Pieter Weening were team directors at Jayco AlUla last year.
Gerry Ryan (left) and Brent Copeland - photo: fotopersburo Cor Vos
