Cynisca Cycling has confirmed its line-up for the 2025 season, continuing to focus on developing North American talent in the European racing scene. With six U23 and elite national titles under their belt for road, track, and gravel in 2024, the team’s ambitions are clear. The roster, featuring both new and returning riders, reflects the team’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young athletes while expanding its competitive scope internationally.
Among the newcomers is Heidi Franz, one of the USA’s leading riders, who brings a wealth of international racing experience. Franz has raced for teams such as LifePlus Wahoo, DNA, ZAAF, and InstaFund, and recently represented the United States at the UCI World Road and Gravel Championships.
Alexis Magner, another notable addition, is a veteran criterium racer with 12 years of professional experience, including six years with the UCI Women’s WorldTour team Canyon/SRAM. Known for her leadership and tactical experience, she is expected to be a key figure in guiding the team’s younger members.
From Ireland, Caoihme O’Brien, the current U23 National Road Champion, continues to impress after a strong 2024 season in the UCI World Tour. Meanwhile, Belgium’s Febe Poppe, only 24, is quickly becoming a rider to watch, having secured several wins and podiums this year.
Canada’s Kaitlyn Rauwerda also joins the roster, coming from DNA Cycling. She is known for her tactical sense and international racing experience, skills that are sure to make an impact for Cynisca in 2025.
Returning riders include Kayla Davis, who re-joined Cynisca in 2024 as a stagiaire and took 3rd in the U23 USA National Road Race. She’s thrilled to be back full-time for 2025. Tess Edwards, a young talent, echoed the sentiment, saying she’s “grateful for the chance to spend another season with a team dedicated to supporting the growth of the women’s elite peloton.”
Veteran Allison Mrugal enters her third year racing in Europe and her second with Cynisca. She credits the team’s sponsors and supporters, recognising how crucial they’ve been to her development. Chloe Patrick, reigning USA U23 National Criterium Champion and holder of six national track titles in 2024, looks forward to competing for Cynisca again next season.
Finally, Claire Windsor, described as the team’s rock, was instrumental in many of Cynisca’s victories in 2024. Reflecting on her time with the team, she said, “The past two seasons have been incredibly memorable and pivotal to my future successes. 2025 is looking even brighter with our exciting lineup of riders.”
With a promising mix of young talent and experienced riders, Cynisca Cycling aims to continue building on their success in the European peloton while fostering opportunities for North American cyclists.
