Uncertainty in the Cycling World: James Shaw’s Journey for a New Team

As the cycling season wraps up, the air fills with excitement, race results, and unfortunately, a cloud of uncertainty for many professional cyclists. With teams folding and contracts ending, riders are left scrambling for new opportunities. One cyclist facing this challenge is 29-year-old James Shaw, fresh off his stint with EF Education-EasyPost and searching for a new team before the 2026 season kicks off.

A Season of Highs and Lows

In his recent Instagram post, James shared a mix of pride and apprehension about his season. “It’s a wrap for 2025,” he wrote, reflecting on his adventures through 81 race days and over 12,000 km of racing, which included two Grand Tours. Despite not capturing his first professional win, he had some remarkable highlights, like finishing third overall in the Région Pays de la Loire Tour. Two years ago, he even secured fifth place in a stage of the Tour de France after an exhilarating early break.

“Now for the awkward answer to the question I’ve been avoiding,” Shaw added candidly, highlighting the uncertainty of his future. He is genuinely unsure about what lies ahead in 2026. This situation is all too common as the season turns to October, leaving many riders like him in pursuit of new contracts.

The Ups and Downs of a Cyclist’s Career

The cycling world can be tough, and Shaw knows this reality all too well. In 2018, he was dropped from Lotto’s WorldTour team but made a comeback after three challenging years in lower-tier teams. It’s a cycle many riders understand—his friend Dan McLay, who recently parted ways with his team after just one season, shares a similar fate. McLay’s last race ended in disappointment with a DNF (did not finish), a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change.

Shaw, however, remains resolute. “I have never been more motivated and enthusiastic,” he stated, showing that the setbacks have only fueled his desire to keep racing. He’s learned to embrace the highs and lows, understanding that passion can keep him in the game, even as he approaches his 30s.

Finding a New Home for 2026

As many teams struggle with funding and mergers, finding a spot on a WorldTour team is becoming increasingly competitive. Riders like Shaw and McLay are navigating this challenging landscape, eager for a contract while knowing that opportunities are dwindling. For Shaw, reaching out to teams is just part of the journey.

Quick Tips for Aspiring Cyclists

Stay Motivated: Remember that every professional has faced their own challenges. Use setbacks as motivation.
Connect and Network: The cycling community is tight-knit. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities.
Keep Training: Always stay prepared. You never know when a chance may come knocking.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

As the uncertainty drama unfolds, Shaw’s journey embodies the raw passion and resilience that define cycling. Whether he finds a new team or has to continue in the search, one thing is clear: his love for the sport remains unwavering. For cycling fans and aspiring pros alike, Shaw’s story reminds us that every pedal stroke counts, and sometimes, the journey is as important as the destination. Keep riding, keep dreaming—you never know what adventure awaits just around the corner!

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