The ongoing development of UAE Team ADQ continues with the contract renewals of three key riders. Belarusian Alena Amialiusik, Briton Lizzie Holden, and Russian Alena Ivanchenko have all extended their contracts, marking a significant step in the team’s growth. These riders have been instrumental in the team’s success in recent seasons and will remain with the squad for the upcoming years.
Alena Amialiusik, aged 35, is one of the most experienced athletes in women’s cycling. Her professionalism and extensive experience have been invaluable to UAE Team ADQ over the past two years. Following a challenging second half of the 2024 season, Amialiusik is determined to bounce back and provide leadership in both the Classics and Grand Tours during the 2025 season. Reflecting on her recent setbacks, she said, “The 2024 season started promisingly for me, but the second half was challenging after I fell ill following the Giro, which kept me out of racing for two months. Just as I was regaining my form, a crash at the Giro dell’Emilia ended my season prematurely due to a kidney injury. I’m ready to put these past few months behind me.” She looks forward to working closely with her teammates, including Elisa Longo Borghini, and focusing on personal goals at the upcoming training camp.
Photo Credit: Rafa Gomez/SprintCyclingAgencyAlena Ivanchenko, who is almost 21 years old, has signed a new two-year deal, securing her place on the team through 2025 and 2026. Despite a challenging year, the former Junior Women’s ITT World Champion has shown significant potential in time trials and stage races. “I owe so much to the team, which has supported my growth over the past three years,” Ivanchenko remarked. “UAE Team ADQ have helped me understand professional cycling, given me opportunities in major races and Grand Tours, and now I’m grateful for the trust they’ve shown in renewing my contract.” She is eager to build on her experience and target future victories.
British rider Elizabeth Holden, aged 27, has also extended her contract for the 2025 season. After overcoming injuries early this year, Holden found form during the summer and became a vital support rider, notably during the Tour de France Femmes. Her performances have convinced the team to invest in her for another season. “I really appreciate that UAE Team ADQ have given me another chance and hopefully I can repay their faith in me and get back to where I was before,” Holden shared. She is particularly excited about the team’s new signings, highlighting the impact of riders like *Elisa Longo Borghini*. Holden aims to return to her best level and support the team in the Spring Classics and Grand Tours, adding, “There’s amazing relationships within the team and that’s given me confidence because I can feel the belief from everyone here.”
Melissa Moncada, President and Head of UAE Team ADQ, expressed confidence in the renewed contracts, stating, “UAE Team ADQ strongly believes in the potential of these athletes and will continue to support them in fully expressing their talent. From the young Alena Ivanchenko to the experienced Lizzie Holden and Alena Amialiusik, these riders have made significant contributions to the team over the years, showcasing excellent qualities and fully embracing our vision. This motivated us to place our trust in them once again as we build the foundation of our future team.”
Main photo credit: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
