Team Jayco AlUla has announced that 21-year-old New Zealander Ella Wyllie is set to join their WorldTour roster in 2024. Wyllie, an exciting talent from Auckland, has fast-tracked her burgeoning career in Europe with commanding performances, most notably her Itzulia Women youth jersey win and 3rd place at Navarra Elite Classics.
Having taken her first European pedal strokes in 2022, she capitalised on the burgeoning opportunities afforded by her then-team, LifePlus Wahoo. In an exceptionally short period, Wyllie has carved out a name for herself in a territory notoriously difficult for Antipodean competitors having to cross the world to race in Europe. Wyllie has been impressing veterans and analysts alike with her persistent top-level finishes.
Brent Copeland, the General Manager of Team Jayco AlUla, remarked on the acquisition with a sense of both pride and expectation. “We are elated to have Ella for the next two seasons. Her achievements during her inaugural European season exemplify her untapped potential,” said Copeland. The General Manager also acknowledged the distinct challenges faced by riders from Australia and New Zealand in adapting to European cycling culture. He confidently stated that Team Jayco AlUla is “equipped with the requisite resources and support to cultivate such overseas talents like Ella into long-term successes.”
He also says that Wyllie’s addition to the team embodies Team Jayco AlUla’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent and an ongoing vision that extends beyond immediate victories; it is anchored in long-term growth. They anticipate that with the right mentorship, Wyllie will evolve from a high-performing cyclist in the WorldTour peloton to a central team leader.
For her part, Ella Wyllie has confidence and ambition. “My sights are set on maximising my capabilities,” she said. “The team has a robust infrastructure, comprising proficient staff and competitive gear, which resonates with my aspirations for 2024 and 2025.”
Wyllie also expressed her admiration for Georgia Williams, a fellow New Zealander who found success in Europe with GreenEDGE Cycling. Williams’ career trajectory, thriving in a challenging European landscape, has been a source of inspiration for Wyllie as she navigates her own path.
While still under 23, Wyllie has her eyes set on young rider jerseys but also envisages learning from and contributing to her team’s overall successes. Her ultimate dream is to clinch the yellow jersey at Le Tour de France Femmes.
