Swiss rider Marlen Reusser has confirmed her move to Movistar, marking the end of her three-year spell with SD Worx-Protime. The 33-year-old, who has battled post-COVID syndrome throughout the year, has signed a three-year deal with the Spanish outfit, starting from 2025.
Speaking about the transfer, Reusser expressed excitement over the new chapter in her career. “I have dreamt of being part of Movistar for a long time,” she revealed. “Now, it’s finally happening. I truly believe this is the right place for me to develop further and reach my full potential.”
Reusser had a challenging 2024 season, which started promisingly with overall victory at the Setmana Valenciana in February. However, her momentum was halted after suffering multiple injuries in a crash at the Tour of Flanders in March, breaking her jaw, damaging both ear canals, and losing eight teeth. Compounding these injuries, Reusser struggled with long COVID, a condition that left her questioning many aspects of her career.
Despite these setbacks, she remains optimistic about the future. “My illness has made me question a lot, but I’m very optimistic and have big ambitions for the coming years. I always strive to improve every day, and I feel that I haven’t yet reached my full potential.”
Reusser’s move to Movistar had been anticipated, with team manager Sebastián Unzué openly discussing their long-standing interest in signing her. “We’ve been in contact for years,” Unzué said earlier in the year. “She’s one of the best riders in the peloton, and her experience is invaluable. We’re thrilled to have her join us.”
Reusser’s career is decorated with notable victories, including her win at Gent-Wevelgem and general classification triumphs at the Tour de Suisse and Itzulia. She has also won two stages of the Tour de France Femmes. Despite these achievements, she remains focused on what’s next. “I want to work hard, maintain dedication, and help the team create a positive dynamic,” Reusser said.
Her departure marks a significant loss for SD Worx-Protime, who have already seen key riders Niamh Fisher-Black and Demi Vollering leave the squad. However, the Dutch team has already started to rebuild by signing big names, including two-time world champion Anna van der Breggen, who is returning from retirement, and Tour of Chongming Island winner Marta Lach.
Unzué also emphasised Reusser’s potential to continue performing at the top level for several years, noting that she is at an ideal stage in her career. He added that Movistar, bolstered by the likes of Liane Lippert and Arlenis Sierra, would remain a force in international cycling with Reusser on board.
“I’m grateful to SD Worx-Protime for the support they’ve shown me during these difficult years,” Reusser said. “There have been big ups and serious downs, but I always felt supported by the team. Now, it’s time to fully recover and start a new adventure.”
With a three-year contract secured, Reusser is ready to leave her struggles behind and focus on realising her full potential with Movistar. The team is equally eager to capitalise on her experience and talent as they continue to assert themselves in the Women’s WorldTour.
