Struggling Alliance - Unraveling the Causes of Juan Ayuso and UAE Team Emirates-XRG's Collapse and the Justification for His Departure
Juan Ayuso's Journey: From Vuelta a Espana to Lidl-Trek
Juan Ayuso, the promising young cyclist, made his Grand Tour debut at the Vuelta a Espana in September 2022, finding himself fifth overall in the competition. However, his journey was not without its challenges.
Ayuso's ambition to one day win the Tour de France and become the best rider in the world was evident. Yet, during his Tour de France debut in 2024, he faced criticism for his teamwork, with João Almeida voicing his disapproval and onlookers left baffled by his behaviour on the Col du Galibier.
In the same year, Ayuso was stung by a bee, forcing him to abandon the Vuelta a Espana. This incident, coupled with lingering issues that affected his performance, led to a significant loss in stage 16 of the race, causing him to drop out of the General Classification (GC).
Despite these setbacks, Ayuso remained committed to UAE Team Emirates, intending to be Tadej Pogacar's future successor. However, a "difference in vision" for his future led to the termination of his contract in September 2025.
Ayuso's departure from UAE Team Emirates, which boasts a line-up of superstar riders including Pogacar, Almeida, and Isaac del Toro, was a significant move. Rumours of his imminent departure had been circulating during the Vuelta a Espana.
In search of an environment that better aligns with his values and where he can continue to develop with complete confidence and peace of mind, Ayuso signed with Lidl-Trek for the 2026 season. This new team, rumoured to be his potential new employers, could provide Ayuso with a GC-focused team and a chance to compete with his former teammates.
The first three months of 2025 saw Ayuso return to his top form, netting wins at the Faun Drôme Classic, Trofeo Laigueglia, Tirreno-Adriatico, and narrowly losing out at the Volta a Catalunya to Primož Roglič. However, his performance at the Vuelta a Espana in 2025 was less impressive, with a significant loss to teammate Isaac del Toro in stage 9.
Despite winning a stage solo from the breakaway during the Vuelta a Espana, Ayuso's overall performance in the race was poor. Tension between him and teammate João Almeida, who tried and failed to work as co-leaders during the race, added to the challenges he faced.
As Ayuso embarks on a new chapter with Lidl-Trek, cycling enthusiasts eagerly await his continued growth and success in the sport.
