British rider Izzy Sharp will return to a UK-based setup next season after signing with the Alba Development Road Team for 2026. The move follows two formative years with Lidl–Trek, during which the 20-year-old gained valuable experience at WorldTour level across both the road and the track.
Sharp, from Southampton, described the transfer as a fresh start and a chance to rediscover her enjoyment of the sport.
“I’m grateful for the last two years, the good and the bad,” she said. “It’s been a huge learning curve for me, but one thing’s for sure – happiness should always be a priority. After one conversation with Bob, the Team Manager, I felt this was just as important to him. So, I cannot wait to get started with Alba Handsling Development Team. I’m looking forward to being on a UK-based team, surrounded by good people and ready to get stuck in, striving for success.”
Alba’s management expressed excitement at welcoming Sharp, whose talent was evident early in her career. “With experience racing at WorldTour level and strong results on both track and road, we’re excited to see what Izzy can bring to the team,” the team said in a statement.
Sharp was one of Britain’s standout juniors in 2023, claiming victories at Gent–Wevelgem Juniors and Omloop van Borsele Juniors, and finishing runner-up in the junior women’s time trial at the UCI Road World Championships. She also won multiple European titles on the track in both the points race and the Madison.
Since turning professional with Lidl–Trek in 2024, she has continued to progress, showing promise in both time trials and stage races. Her best results this year include second at the British National Criterium Championships, sixth in the under-23 time trial, and ninth at the Chrono des Nations.
Sharp’s decision to step away from the WorldTour one year before the end of her contract is a move towards balance and long-term development. For Alba Development Road Team, her arrival represents both ambition and intent as they continue to build a pathway for young British riders to flourish domestically and internationally.
