'We are gravely concerned' - The Cyclists' Alliance respond to the UCI's request for consultation on the future of the sport

The Cyclists' Alliance (TCA) has issued a robust response to the UCI's consultation request regarding the sport's future, advocating for significant structural reforms in women's cycling. Their statement, titled "We are gravely concerned," outlines proposals for greater rider representation in governance, improved safety standards, and a more equitable distribution of revenue. This follows the UCI's recent invitation for stakeholders to contribute to discussions on the sport's trajectory.

This intervention by TCA is particularly salient given the rapid, yet often uneven, growth of women's cycling. While prize money and media coverage have seen increases, fundamental issues like minimum wage, maternity leave, and consistent safety protocols across all race levels remain inconsistent. TCA's call for radical change reflects a growing impatience among riders for systemic improvements, moving beyond incremental adjustments to address the sport's underlying economic and structural vulnerabilities.

Ultimately, TCA's direct challenge to the UCI's status quo underscores a critical juncture. The riders are no longer merely participants; they are demanding a seat at the table, and rightly so, to shape a sustainable future for their profession.