The gravel star believes female athletes should define their own limits

Paul Magnier arrived at last years Giro dItalia as one of cyclings most exciting young prospects. Twelve months later, the Frenchman returns with a team built around him, realistic expectations of stage victories and genuine belief that he can challenge the biggest sprint names in the race immedi...

Santini and Mads Pedersen launch Momentum Series, bringing WorldTour aero thinking to everyday ridersSantini has unveiled the new Mads Pedersen Momentum Series, a capsule collection developed with the Danish star and built around the same aerodynamic ideas used by Lidl-Trek at WorldTour level. The range was previewed at Velodrom Odeon in Girona on Saturday 2 May, with Pedersen present in front of a large crowd of fans and riders.At its heart, this is a collection about speed, but it is also about identity. Santini says the line allows Pedersen to put his own stamp on a high-performance platform, combining his racing character with the brands latest aero development.The project grows out of MADSS, short for Mega Aerodynamic Speed Shell, Santinis concept focused on maximum aerodynamic efficiency. According to the brand, the key distinction is that MADSS is the technical framework created by Santinis research and development team, while the Momentum Series is Pedersens personal take on that same performance brief.Visually, the collection leans into motion. Its signature graphic uses arrows pointing left and right, a motif intended to represent drive, energy and speed. It gives the range a sharper, more individual feel than a standard team-inspired drop, and it helps separate this from a simple replica kit story.The headline pieces are the jersey and bib shorts. Santini says the jersey is based on its new Aero Race model and uses Polartec Power Dry with Recycled Carbon fabric, made through a CO2 capture process that turns industrial emissions into recycled polyester yarns. The brand states that the 128g/m fabric contains 91 per cent recycled carbon content and is designed to balance breathability, thermoregulation and race-ready performance.Santini also claims that, through this fabric technology, Polartec and Santini have reduced carbon footprint by as much as 66 per cent compared with garments made from virgin polyester, without sacrificing durability, comfort or technical performance. That gives the jersey an extra layer of interest beyond its aero credentials, especially at a time when brands are under growing pressure to show more substance on sustainability.In pure performance terms, the jersey is shaped for speed. Santini highlights a close, second-skin fit, carefully positioned rear panels and striped sleeves designed to use vortex generation to reduce drag. Raw-cut sleeves, a silicone gripper and three rear pockets round out the package. Riders will be able to choose from mint or navy block colours, or graphic versions in mint and chocolate tones.The bib shorts are pitched more towards all-day usability, with Santini promising comfort, muscle support and stability over long rides. They use an elastic, breathable Italian technical fabric to encourage quick drying, while calibrated compression is intended to support the legs without feeling restrictive. Seamless braces aim to reduce pressure points, and the C3 chamois uses a 3D construction with gel inserts for shock absorption on longer days in the saddle. The shorts come in off-white and chocolate.For riders chasing an even more aggressive setup, the collection also includes a road skinsuit inspired by the MADSS model. Santini describes it as the most aero-focused garment in the range, using a breathable Lycra upper, a low collar and woven striped sleeves to improve airflow. The lower half uses high-resistance Lycra with medium compression and extended raw-cut legs with internal silicone grippers, while the same C3 chamois is carried over for race and distance comfort.Beyond the core apparel, the line broadens out into a full riding system. Overshoes, socks and arm warmers are all included, with the latter also offering UV protection and stable thermoregulation. There is also an off-white vest and a matching 500ml water bottle aimed at training use.Off the bike, Santini has added a lifestyle layer with T-shirts, long-sleeve tops, hoodies and a cap, offered in mint and grey. It is a familiar move from a premium kit brand, but in this case it makes sense: the Momentum Series is clearly being sold not just as clothing, but as an extension of Pedersens image and racing mindset.Taken as a whole, the Momentum Series looks like a smart piece of crossover product design. It borrows heavily from top-end race development, but avoids feeling like a straight team issue copy. For riders who want a fast, polished kit with a stronger personality than the usual pro-inspired release, this one could have genuine appeal.

Cyclesport Specialized at a training camp earlier in the season. Photographer: Greg Beleria.Cyclesport Specialized (USA) announced for Rs Tailteann 2026!Based in Santa Cruz, California, Cyclesport Specialized arrives at Rs Tailteann backed by one of the most recognised names in cycling, bringing a distinct West Coast identity to one of Europes most historic stage races. The teams participation marks its first international race and represents a significant step in its development.The four-rider squad combines young Californian talent with international experience. Leading the lineup is 19-year-old Ivan Linser, who has enjoyed a strong run of results across the California racing scene this season. He is joined by Blake Macheras and Jackson Duncan, along with French rider Pierre-Amaury Laforcade, adding a European dimension to the team.Speaking ahead of the race, Team DS Dillon Hollinger said: Racing in Ireland is a huge step for the team and a chance to test ourselves against the best on a different continent. Were proud to fly the California flag at the Rs.Race Director Ger Campbell added: Its great to welcome Cyclesport Specialized to Rs Tailteann for the first time. A team making its international debut always brings an extra level of excitement, and it will be interesting to see how they adapt to the demands of racing in Ireland. They are a young team with clear ambition and this will be a valuable experience for them.

Capoliveri set for World Cup test as marathon specialists tackle Elbas toughest trailsThe HERO UCI Cross-country Marathon World Cup heads to the island of Elba on Saturday 9 May for its second round, with the Capoliveri Legend Cup once again promising a demanding examination of endurance, technical skill and race craft. Set against the backdrop of the Tuscan coast, the Italian fixture has become one of the defining events of the European marathon calendar and will see many of the disciplines leading names line up over a brutal 73km course with 2,600 metres of climbing.Capoliveris reputation rests not only on its scenery but on the character of the course. The route loops around the Capoliveri promontory and mixes long efforts with repeated technical sections, forcing riders to constantly adapt their rhythm. Competitors will move from the distinctive red, iron-rich dirt of the old mining areas, where grip can be unpredictable, to tighter singletrack running through Mediterranean scrub, where precision and concentration are likely to prove just as important as raw power.The womens race is headed by Anna Weinbeer, who arrives on Elba as the World Cup leader after victory at the opening round in Costa Blanca. The Swiss rider, who also finished as runner-up at the 2025 UCI XCM World Championships, has the form and the pedigree to start as favourite, but the depth of the field means she is unlikely to get an easy ride. Among those expected to challenge are Adelheid Morath and Sandra Mairhofer of Leecougan Basso Factory Racing, along with Paula Gorycka-Krmann, Lejla Njemevi, Claudia Peretti and Natalia Fischer of the Extremadura Ecopilas Team.The mens contest looks just as compelling. Belgiums Wout Alleman comes in as leader of the overall World Cup standings after taking the first round, but there is no shortage of rivals capable of overturning that order on Capoliveris unforgiving terrain. Andres Seewald starts as one of the key threats from second in the UCI ranking, while Samuele Porro, Gioele De Cosmo and the evergreen Leonardo Pez add further weight to a stacked field. With the climbs severe and the technical sections capable of creating gaps at any moment, this is a race that should reward both patience and boldness.Race day begins early, with the Elite Men scheduled to start from Viale Italia at 8.30am, followed by the Elite Women, Masters and amateur categories. While the elite field will tackle the full marathon distance for World Cup points, organisers are also offering a shorter but still demanding 45km route with 1,600 metres of elevation gain. The first elite men are expected at the finish at around 11.45am, with the leading women and Masters due roughly 45 minutes later before the prize ceremony at 12.45pm.The weekend programme also includes the HERO Race Talk on Friday 8 May at 4.00pm, an open event designed to bring fans closer to the riders. Weinbeer and Porro are due to appear, alongside Maria Zarantonello and Dario Cherchi, offering insight into training, racing and the demands of a season built around the biggest marathon events on the calendar. It is a fitting curtain-raiser for a round that has established itself as one of the sports showcase occasions.For those following from home, the organisers are giving the event broad international exposure. Live coverage is scheduled from 10.30am to 1.00pm CEST on RaiPlay, the official UCI YouTube channel and the HERO UCI Cross-country Marathon World Cup website, which will also host live timing and rider tracking for the leading elite contenders. That reach underlines the growing status of marathon mountain biking and the importance of Capoliveri within it.As the series begins to take shape, Saturdays racing on Elba should offer an early indication of who can combine climbing strength, technical poise and staying power over one of the calendars most distinctive courses. On paper, Weinbeer and Alleman arrive with the numbers and momentum, but Capoliveri rarely rewards reputation alone. On these trails, the favourites still have to earn it.

Samus Domegan (Cairde Rs Tailteann) joins Cathal Kealey (Head of Marketing & PR at Kia Ireland) and Liam Crowley (2026 Rs Tailteann competitor) at the launch of Kias sponsorship of Rs Tailteann 2026. Photographer: Lorraine OSullivan.Kia Ireland announced as Rs Tailteann yellow jersey sponsors!The yellow jersey is awarded to the overall race leader at the end of each stage and remains the most recognisable symbol of success in the race. Having previously supported the event through sponsorship of race numbers, Kias move to title sponsor of the yellow jersey marks a significant expansion of their involvement.In addition to their jersey sponsorship, Kia will provide a fleet of seven vehicles to support the organisation and delivery of the race across the five days, playing a key role in the logistical running of the event.Thanking Kia Ireland for their continued support, Race Director Ger Campbell said: We are extremely grateful to Kia Ireland for their continued and increased support of Rs Tailteann. Stepping up to sponsor the yellow jersey is a major commitment and highlights the strength of the partnership. Their support, both through the jersey and the provision of vehicles, is hugely important in delivering the race each year.Cathal Kealey, Head of Marketing & PR at Kia Ireland added: Kia are delighted to return as sponsors of the Rs Tailteann this year. Aside from our sponsorship of the yellow jersey, the Rs will cross 11 counties over five days and provide positive exposure for our brand. We wish all participants, teams and volunteers the very best of luck and encourage as many spectators as possible to come out and support the race in your area.Picture: Samus Domegan (Cairde Rs Tailteann) joins Cathal Kealey (Head of Marketing & PR at Kia Ireland) and Liam Crowley (2026 Rs Tailteann competitor) at the launch of Kias sponsorship of Rs Tailteann 2026. Photographer: Lorraine OSullivan.

The 2026 edition of the Giro d'Italia 2026 gets underway in Bulgaria on Friday and, according to former rider and analyst Philippa York, the battle for the pink jersey already appears heavily tilted in favour of Jonas Vingegaard. York believes the Dane arrives as the clear benchmark after consistent...

Picture: Alex Pritchard of the UK Richardsons Trek DAS team wins Stage 1 of the 2024 Rs Tailteann into Kilmallock (Photographer: Lorraine OSullivan).Rs Tailteann returns to Kilmallock for stage one finish!Having started in Portlaoise earlier in the day, the race will travel south through Laois and Tipperary before reaching County Limerick, where the first stage winner of the 2026 Rs Tailteann will be crowned in Kilmallock.Cairde Rs Tailteann would like to sincerely thank Limerick County Council and the local community in Kilmallock for their support in hosting the stage finish. Their backing and enthusiasm play a key role in bringing the race to the town and ensuring a memorable occasion for riders and spectators alike.The first half of the stage will take place on mostly flat roads but the action is expected to build as the race tackles its first climbs of Rs Tailteann 2026 in the Silvermines at Dolla. A further climb at Old Pallas on the run-in to Kilmallock is sure to shake things up, while a fast final 20 kilometres could allow the race to come back together or provide the opportunity for a decisive late move.Kilmallock also hosted the stage one finish in 2024 and produced a fantastic turnout of spectators, creating a brilliant atmosphere in the town. Locals and supporters are encouraged to come out once again, line the streets and help give the riders a memorable welcome as they arrive to conclude the opening day of this years event.Race Director Ger Campbell said: We are delighted to bring the stage one finish back to Kilmallock for the 2026 Rs Tailteann. It proved a fantastic host town in 2024, with tremendous support from the local community, and we are looking forward to seeing that atmosphere again. I would also like to thank Limerick County Council and Southside Wheely Wheelers for their continued support in helping to bring the race back to Kilmallock. The closing part of the stage should make for an exciting finish, with the climb at Old Pallas and the fast final 20 kilometres giving riders the chance to make a decisive move.Paul Gammell, stage end organiser said: It is a great honour for Kilmallock to host the stage one finish once again. The town really embraced the race when it came here in 2024, and there is great excitement locally at the prospect of welcoming the riders, teams, officials and supporters back again. We would encourage people to come out, enjoy the occasion and help create another special Rs atmosphere in Kilmallock.

Launching the 71st Rs Tailteann which starts at County Hall in Portlaoise on the 20 May 2026.The 161.6 Km route is Portlaoise Abbeyleix Ballacolla Rathdowney Errill Clonmore Templemore Borrisoleigh Dolla Doon Pallasgreen Herbertstown Hospital Bruff Kilmallock. From left: Martin Keane, Laois Cycling Club; Michael Rainey, Laois County Council, Chief Executive; Cllr Barry Walsh, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council; Ger Campbell, Rs Tailteann Race Director; Seamus Kavanagh, Ossory Cycling Club; Dominic Reddin, Laois Tourism Officer; Elaine Moore, Laois Tourism Administrator and Angela McEvoy, Director of Services, Laois County Council.Photo: Alf Harvey.Portlaoise to host Rs Tailteann 2026 Grand DpartThe race will gather at Laois County Council Offices for the ceremonial start before the riders set out on the road to Kilmallock, Co. Limerick for an exciting opening day of racing. Portlaoise will provide the backdrop for the first gathering of riders, teams, officials and supporters as the 2026 event gets underway, giving locals the opportunity to be part of a special occasion in the Irish sporting calendar.Cairde Rs Tailteann would like to sincerely thank Laois County Council and in particular, Tourism Administrator Elaine Moore, for their support in hosting the stage start. Their backing plays a key role in bringing the race to the county and ensuring a successful opening to the 2026 event.Following a stage finish in Mountrath in 2025, the race returns to County Laois in a new role for 2026, hosting the opening stage start and once again placing the county at the centre of the event.The 161.6 kilometre route will see the race travel through Abbeyleix, Ballacolla, Rathdowney, Errill, Clonmore, Templemore and Borrisoleigh before reaching the first climbs of Rs Tailteann 2026 in the Silvermines at Dolla. A further climb at Old Pallas on the run-in to Kilmallock is expected to shape the stage while a fast final section could see the race come back together or provide the opportunity for a decisive move.Race Director Ger Campbell said: We are delighted that Portlaoise will host the stage one start of the 2026 Rs Tailteann. There is always a special atmosphere around the opening day of the race, and Portlaoise is a fitting place to get this years event underway. I would also like to thank Laois County Council for their support and cooperation in helping to bring the race to Portlaoise. While the first half of the stage may look straightforward, the climbs later in the day and the fast run-in to Kilmallock should make for a very competitive opening stage.Elaine Moore, Tourism Administrator with Laois County Council said: We are very pleased to welcome Rs Tailteann to Portlaoise. It is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the town and county and to be part of an event with such a proud tradition in Irish sport. We look forward to welcoming riders, teams, officials and supporters to Laois for what promises to be a memorable occasion.Samus Kavanagh, Stage Start Organiser added: It is a real privilege for Portlaoise to host the opening day of the 2026 Rs Tailteann. There is always something unique about the first day of the race, and we are looking forward to seeing the town come alive as the riders set out on the road to Kilmallock. We would encourage people to come out, enjoy the atmosphere and give the race a great send-off.With an exciting opening stage in store and the first climbs of the race set to test the field before the finish in Kilmallock, stage one promises to provide an early indication of who is ready to make their mark on the 2026 Rs Tailteann.

Warren Barguil was not originally expected to line up for the Giro d'Italia 2026, but after weeks of recovery and persistent conversations with his team, the experienced Frenchman convinced Team Picnic PostNL to give him a place in the squad for the Italian Grand Tour. Barguil explained that his sea...