**ABU DHABI:** UAE Team Emirates-XRG turns World Bicycle Day into a celebration not only of cycling achievements but also of community impact and sustainability initiatives. While they are known for their prowess on the competitive circuit, the team is channeling its influence towards fostering cycling culture and environmental responsibility, earning accolades that highlight their commitment to these vital areas.
This week, their efforts were honored with two prestigious nominations from the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). The team was recognized for its groundbreaking youth-focused initiative, the UAE Team Emirates-XRG Academy, with a nomination for the Cycling for All Award. In addition, their commitment to sustainability through the “Road to Net-Zero” initiative earned them a nomination for the Climate Action Award. Both awards will be presented later this month at the UCI Mobility & Bike City Forum in Copenhagen, showcasing the team’s global footprint.
Mauro Gianetti, the team principal and CEO, expressed pride in these recognitions: “As we celebrate World Bicycle Day, we’re incredibly proud to see our work recognized on the global stage. These honors reflect our deep commitment to growing the sport at a grassroots level and ensuring sustainability remains at the heart of everything we do.”
The UAE Team Emirates-XRG Academy, launched in 2025, is a cornerstone of the team’s community engagement strategy. It has already engaged over 700 schoolchildren through more than 80 hours of in-school coaching. Plans are in motion to expand the program to reach an additional 1,300 students by the end of the year. This ambitious goal underscores the team’s focus on nurturing future cycling talent throughout Abu Dhabi and beyond.
Gianetti elaborated on the vision behind the academy: “The UAE Team Emirates-XRG Academy, powered by ADNOC, is central to this vision, helping us inspire the next generation of cyclists and create meaningful change in our communities.” He emphasized gratitude towards ADNOC for their unwavering support, recognizing that partnership as instrumental for the academy’s success. “The opportunities ahead are endless—for our team, for young riders, and for the continued development of cycling across the region,” he added.
While their community initiatives are making headlines, the team’s performance in races during 2025 has been equally noteworthy. UAE Team Emirates-XRG has clinched landmark victories at prestigious events such as the Tour of Flanders and Liège–Bastogne–Liège. They have also marked their presence with podium finishes at Milano-Sanremo, Paris-Roubaix, and the Giro d’Italia, reinforcing their status as an elite team in the competitive cycling realm.
Gianetti reflected on the growth of the team, stating, “The growth of the team over the past eight years has been extraordinary. Our success is driven by the talent and dedication of our riders, the expertise of our staff, and the incredible support from the leadership of the country, our partners, and fans.” He noted the rapid growth of cycling in the UAE and expressed pride in contributing to a movement that is gaining momentum each day.
