St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93 have made their first signing ahead of the 2026 season, confirming that Karolina Kumiega will join the team on a two-year deal. The 26-year-old Polish rider, currently with Belgian outfit KDM–Pack Cycling Team, will become a key part of the team’s ambitions for the classics over the next two seasons.
Kumiega’s career has taken her from Valcar to UAE Team ADQ and now to KDM-Pack, where she has rebuilt her form after a difficult 2024 season without a pro contract. With a reputation for strength in aggressive one-day races and a powerful sprint, she is expected to play a leading role in Auber93’s expanded programme.
“Karolina was one of our top recruitment priorities,” said General Manager Stephan Gaudry. “She’s a rider made for the classics, with a great finishing kick. She has what it takes to be up there with the best. We immediately had a great connection with Karolina and we know we’ll achieve great things with her in our colours.”
For Kumiega, the move marks a return to the highest level after a year spent proving herself again in the Continental race ranks. After illness and setbacks left her without a contract at the end of 2024, she used 2025 to re-establish her consistency and reassert her talent on the road.
“Last year wasn’t the easiest for me. I struggled with illness and bad luck, and ultimately ended the year without a professional contract,” she explained. “But I didn’t give up, and with the help of many people around me, I just kept going. This year, luck was more on my side and I had many good days on the bike and proved my worth in races.”
Kumiega spoke positively about her new environment. “From the first conversation with St Michel–Preference Home-Auber93, I felt a very positive energy. I was impressed by the professionalism and the great organisation within the team. I like their vision for the future and how they see my role within the group. I truly feel like I’ve found a place where people believe in me.”
With a renewed sense of purpose and a stable team environment behind her, Kumiega will look to lead the French squad into their most ambitious campaign yet as they begin shaping a new phase of their development for 2026 and beyond.
