“There Is No Other Way”: UCI Moves to Lead Sweeping Reform of Professional Cycling

​The Union Cycliste Internationale has launched a formal push to reshape the structure of professional cycling, with president David Lappartient insisting reforms must be driven from within the sport’s governing body.

​In a letter titled “Reform of Professional Cycling,” sent to team, rider and organizer associations as well as national federations, Lappartient called for a unified consultation process covering the calendar, economic model, safety, fan engagement and integrity of results. “There is no other way,” he wrote, arguing that previous reform attempts failed due to a lack of consensus and coordination.

​The initiative follows years of tension around alternative proposals, including the Saudi-backed One Cycling project, which the UCI previously deemed incompatible with its governance framework. Without naming the project directly, Lappartient referenced past breakaway efforts that “failed to come to fruition,” stressing that meaningful change must take place “under the aegis” of the UCI.

​At the same time, he signaled openness to structural change in a sport often accused of conservatism. The UCI, he said, is “ready to consider significant developments” if they strengthen financial stability and support long-term growth.

​Stakeholders have been invited to submit proposals ahead of upcoming Professional Cycling Council meetings, with reforms potentially touching everything from media rights to rider transfers.

​Cycling’s future now hinges on whether its fractured ecosystem can finally sit at the same table and mean it.