Swiss Cycling has announced the launch of Nexetis, a women’s road cycling team that will debut in 2025 as a UCI Continental Team. The project, introduced in Zurich on 25th November, is designed to provide a platform for young Swiss athletes to develop their potential, bridging a gap in the country’s cycling pathway.
Speaking at the event, Swiss Cycling’s Managing Director, Thomas Peter, explained the motivation behind the initiative. “There is currently no team in which our young cyclists can develop, none that encourages Swiss women,” he said. Peter highlighted the difficulties many riders face transitioning from junior level to racing abroad. “That’s why we are now filling this gap with Nexetis,” he added.
The team’s roster includes 11 riders from three nations, with notable Swiss talent such as Jasmin Liechti, who won silver in the U23 time trial at the World Road Championships in Zurich this September. Liechti described her decision to join the team as a vital step in her career. “Nexetis gives me space and time to focus on my development,” said the 22-year-old from Burgdorf. She revealed that she had received other offers but saw Nexetis as the best fit for her ambitions.
Experienced leadership and development focus
Nexetis will be led by Team Manager Anna Wiese, who previously worked at the UCI’s World Cycling Centre, and Swiss Cycling’s women’s head coach, Edi Telser. Telser, who will act as the team’s Head of Sport on a part-time basis, noted that the team’s mission is to build from the ground up. “We are starting at the UCI Continental Team level and want to work our way up from there,” said Telser, a former national mountain bike coach.
Telser’s responsibilities include coordinating with the riders and occasionally stepping into the role of sporting director. This strategic structure is aimed at helping Nexetis lay a strong foundation in its first season.
Photo Credit: KeystoneDiverse talent pool
The team’s roster showcases a mix of disciplines, with riders like Nika Bobnar (21), who raced with the WCC Team, and Lea Huber (20), formerly of Trek Future Racing, joining the squad. It also includes Noelle Ingold (24) from Disco Cycle Cross Crew, and Anina Hutter (19) of JB Brunex Superior Factory Racing, alongside three Japanese riders who have been mentored by Daniel Gisiger, a former Swiss national track coach.
While Nexetis isn’t aiming to attract riders of Marlen Reusser’s calibre, Peter underscored its role in nurturing emerging talent. The launch has already attracted backing from two prominent Swiss cycling brands, adding credibility to the initiative.
2025 Nexetis Rider Line-up
Nika Bobnar, 21 years old (WCC Team)
Ginia Caluori, 22 years old (Wilier-Vittoria Factory Team XCO)
Lea Huber, 20 years old (Trek Future Racing)
Anina Hutter, 19 years old (JB Brunex Superior Factory Racing)
Noelle Ingold, 24 years old (Disco Cycle Cross Crew)
Jasmin Liechti, 22 years old (WCC Team)
Noëlle Rüetschi, 20 years old (AG Insurance-Soudal NXTG)
Larissa Tschenett, 23 years old (RMV Chur Raiffeisen Alsoft)
Plus three Japanese riders TBC
Main photo credit: Keystone
