Nexetis, the new Swiss women’s Continental team, will open its first season on Wednesday at the Umag Classic on the Istrian peninsula. In these early races, the team’s main aim is to develop cohesion, learn to read the race, and execute race strategies effectively.
The team’s journey began in February with a ten-day training camp in Massa Marittima, Tuscany. Team manager Anna Wiese praised the atmosphere, saying, “It is inspiring to work with these young athletes; there is a lot of enthusiasm for the project and great gratitude for the commitment.” Nexetis is part of a Swiss Cycling funding programme launched in November to support female riders in stepping up to professional cycling.
The camp focused on both physical conditioning and tactical basics, but now the emphasis shifts to race execution. For these early events, the riders will have to compete without radio communication, making teamwork and in-race adaptability even more crucial.
The Umag Classic will mark the team’s first competitive outing, followed by the Porec Classic on Sunday. Representing Nexetis will be Nika Bobnar, Noelle Ingold, Yurina Kinoshita, Jasmin Liechti, Noëlle Rüetschi, and Larissa Tschenett in the UCI 1.2-level races. “For these first races, our main focus is to execute our strategies as a cohesive team. The athletes are well prepared and ready to give their best. While results are important, we are more focused on how we perform together and how well we can adapt to the race conditions. If we stay true to our plan and communicate effectively, the results will come,” said Wiese.
