Norway’s oldest Continental outfit has secured its future under a new identity, Team Drali – Repsol, following the signing of a three-year partnership with Drali Milano, one of Italy’s most historic cycling brands. The agreement ensures the team’s stability through to 2028, combining Norwegian development with Italian craftsmanship, and brings Alexander Kristoff into a central role as co-owner and mentor.
After a period of uncertainty surrounding the future of Team Coop – Repsol, the new partnership marks a fresh beginning. The men’s team, operated by Fjords Cycling AS, will continue under the guidance of CEO Roy Hegreberg, while Drali Milano and Repsol take on title sponsorship from the 2026 season.
Drali Milano enters the World of Scandinavian cycling
Founded in 1925, Drali Milano is one of Italian cycling’s most enduring names. Over the past century, its frames have carried legends like Costante Girardengo and Fausto Coppi to major victories, including Milan-San Remo. For Drali, the partnership with the Norwegian squad represents both a symbolic and strategic step forward.
“Being part of this ambitious project is a unique opportunity to create real value together,” said Robert Carrara, President of Drali Milano. “The team is well structured, forward-looking and driven by passion, values that align perfectly with our own. We’re proud to start this collaboration and to support young talents with our bikes as they progress toward the professional ranks.”
Starting in 2026, the team will race on Drali machines, combining Italian engineering with Norwegian racing ambition.
A fresh chapter after the Coop-Repsol split
The agreement follows the amicable separation between Team Coop – Repsol’s men’s and women’s squads, which had operated under a joint structure since 2023. The men’s team, managed by Fjords Cycling AS and owned by Erik Johan Sæbø and Njål Østerhus, will now compete independently under the new name Team Drali – Repsol.
“This partnership guarantees our future and ensures that Norway continues to have a development team for young riders,” said Roy Hegreberg, CEO of Fjords Cycling AS. “We are grateful for the continued trust from Repsol, and now with Drali Milano joining us, we can move forward with renewed ambition and the best equipment possible.”
Alexander Kristoff’s next step in cycling
After ending his professional career in Malaysia in October, Alexander Kristoff takes on a new role in the sport that defined him. As a co-owner and mentor, the 2017 European Champion and winner of Milan-San Remo and the Tour of Flanders will bring experience and leadership to the next generation of Norwegian riders.
“I’m happy to stay connected to the cycling community,” said Kristoff. “It’s vital for Norway to have a team like Team Drali – Repsol to nurture new talent. I want to share what I’ve learned about racing, training and equipment, and help both riders and staff develop. It’s a new challenge, but one I’m really excited for.”
Stability and long-term vision
The new sponsorship deal provides the team with financial security and predictability, something that had been in doubt earlier this year. Repsol, which has supported Norwegian cycling since 2016 through the Tour of Norway and various development projects, reaffirmed its commitment to youth development and community engagement.
“We’ve had ten fantastic years in Norwegian cycling,” said Grethe Elise Foldnes, Communications Manager at Repsol Norge AS. “Continuing with this partnership allows us to keep contributing to the sport’s growth and to support local talent. The collaboration with Drali Milano and the involvement of Alexander Kristoff will only strengthen that vision.”
The team will retain long-time partners such as Spinn Sykkelshop, responsible for technical support, and Racing Depot, which will continue to supply clothing from Santini. The 2026 roster will consist of ten riders, to be announced in the coming weeks.
With Drali Milano’s heritage, Repsol’s backing, and Kristoff’s expertise, Team Drali – Repsol enters its next chapter with renewed purpose and a clear mission: to keep Norway’s cycling legacy alive while giving its young talents the platform to shine on the international stage.
