Handsling Alba have confirmed their full roster for the 2026 season, unveiling a dynamic mix of new signings, rising British talent and established performers who continue to form the core of one of the UK’s most ambitious development-focused teams. After a landmark 2025 campaign that delivered the team’s first UCI victory at Tour de Feminin, a national champion’s jersey and multiple domestic wins, the project now moves into its next phase with renewed depth and momentum.
Across the board, this is a squad built for progression. Every rider who joins speaks of the environment as a catalyst for development, and every rider staying on highlights the cohesion, support and clear direction that makes Handsling Alba one of the UK’s standout pathway teams.
Below, we break down every signing and extension ahead of 2026, and what each rider brings to a team that continues to raise its ceiling.
New signings strengthen every area of the squad
Maddie Cooper
One of the most exciting new additions is BUCS road race champion Maddie Cooper, who impressed as a stagiaire during the team’s European programme late in 2025. Her podiums at the Guildford Crit and Ilkley GP underline her speed and instinctive racing style, and she arrives full of enthusiasm for the step ahead.
“Couldn’t be happier to be joining Alba for next season,” she said, noting the professionalism she felt from day one. Her progression curve suggests she will become a key rider in the team’s domestic and European calendar.
Holly Ramsey
Another strong homegrown talent joins in the form of Holly Ramsey, who has collected a series of promising domestic and European results this season. She sees Handsling Alba as the right platform to push on.
“It’s a proven environment for growth and development,” she said. Her blend of race sharpness and determination should fit seamlessly into a team geared toward rider progression.
Grace Lister
Grace Lister brings a major engine and headline results, including 15th overall at the Tour of Britain Women and a podium at the Lincoln GP. Her climbing ability and resilience over stage races make her one of the most significant additions to the squad.
“I’m excited for new opportunities, a fresh start and to see what we can achieve together,” she said.
Izzy Sharp
Perhaps the marquee signing of the winter, former Lidl-Trek rider and standout track talent Izzy Sharp joins after two seasons at the WorldTour level. Sharp arrives with a wealth of experience and a desire to reconnect with an environment built on trust and stability.
“Happiness should always be a priority,” she said. “After one conversation with Bob, I felt that was just as important to him.” Her versatility across road and track gives the team a proven performer capable of influencing races at the highest level in their programme.
Arabella Blackburn
Junior world and European champion in the Team Pursuit, Arabella Blackburn steps up for her first senior season. Her time trial engine, track pedigree and early road success mark her out as a major long-term prospect.
“The team has a brilliant reputation for supporting and developing riders,” she said. Her transition from junior racing will be one of the most intriguing storylines of 2026.
Anna Flynn
With a strong cyclocross and off-road background, Anna Flynn has shown increasingly sharp results on the road. She joins eager to test herself at a higher level with a structured programme.
“I’m really excited to be riding for Alba next year,” she said. Her versatility will allow Handsling Alba to deploy her effectively across a wide variety of courses.
Contract extensions reinforce the team’s competitive backbone
Mari Porton
A breakthrough 2025 season, including victory at the Maria Thompson Memorial and a podium at the Curlew Cup, sees Mari Porton return for another year. Her consistency in both one-day races and stage races makes her an invaluable all-rounder.
“The team environment and support is unmatched,” she said.
Maddie Leech
Leech stays on after a strong year across domestic racing and commitments with the GB track squad. Her continued development and tactical maturity will be vital for the team in Europe.
“I’m excited to build on what I’ve learned this year,” she said.
Eluned King
A pillar of the team’s sprint and circuit race efforts, Eluned King re-signs after a season filled with resilience and smart teamwork.
“The support we receive is unparalleled,” she said.
Kate Richardson
The team’s standout performer in 2025, National Crit Champion and Tour de Feminin overall winner Kate Richardson returns after a season that elevated Handsling Alba’s reputation across Europe.
“2025 was my most successful season yet,” she said. Her leadership, versatility and winning mentality will again be central to the team’s ambitions.
Beth Morrow
Back for 2026, Beth Morrow brings commitment and reliability, having gained important European experience this year, including at the Tour of Britain Women.
“I feel so lucky to continue developing in such a supportive environment,” she said.
Amelia Tyler
After a strong spring and a determined recovery from her summer injury, Amelia Tyler returns for her fourth season. Her breakaway strength and climbing potential remain key attributes.
“Thanks to their support during my recovery, I’m motivated to get back to racing,” she said.
Neah Evans
A key contributor both on and off the bike, Neah Evans stays with the team following a season that included a podium at the CiCLE Classic.
“The team spirit was always strong,” she said.
Arianne Holland
Scottish Time Trial Champion Arianne Holland returns after a superb 2025 campaign, adding depth and dependable strength across both TT efforts and road races.
“The team just keeps getting stronger,” she said.
A team ready for its next breakthrough
Handsling Alba’s 2025 season already marked a step-change with victories at the Scottish TT Championships, Lincoln GP, and the historic first UCI triumph at Tour de Feminin. With an expanded roster full of upward momentum, 2026 promises to be the most ambitious campaign yet.
The blend of WorldTour experience, junior world champions, proven domestic winners and long-term returning riders gives the squad unprecedented depth. The collective ambition is clear: to keep developing, keep winning, and keep pushing British women’s cycling forward.
2026 Handsling Alba roster
Returning riders:
- Kate Richardson
- Mari Porton
- Maddie Leech
- Eluned King
- Beth Morrow
- Amelia Tyler
- Neah Evans
- Arianne Holland
New signings:
- Maddie Cooper
- Holly Ramsey
- Grace Lister
- Izzy Sharp
- Arabella Blackburn
- Anna Flynn
Main photo credit: Frison Florian
