Phonak and Swiss Cycling launch partnership

ARcycling AG, the company managing the Phonak Cycling team, has announced a partnership with the Swiss cycling federation to support Swiss development riders in their beginning careers. At select races, the best Swiss U23 riders will be able to compare themselves directly with the international competition. ARcycling AG supports this idea with a financial commitment of 100,000 Swiss francs.

On the initiative of team Phonak's directors Andy Rihs and John Lelangue, the cooperation with Swiss Cycling should enable true talents to make the leap into the professional ranks over the mid and long term. "If we want to remain one of the strongest cycling nations in future as well, then we can't afford to lose any time in actively creating and implementing the appropriate professional structures," said Andy Rihs.

ARcycling AG will cover the costs for transport etc., as the U23 riders will travel all over Europe next year. "Competing as a national team at five of the best one-day races and one large international stage race for young riders, the young Swiss talents will be given a chance to distinguish themselves in direct competition with the best up-and-coming riders," said John Lelangue. Together with representatives from Swiss Cycling, the racing calendar will be drawn up over the next couple of weeks. Races in Belgium, France, Italy, Spain and Switzerland are being considered.