Based in Aigle, Switzerland, the World Cycling Centre women’s team has brought together ten riders from ten countries across four continents for the 2026 season. They come from Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Chile, Colombia, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Rwanda, Switzerland and Ukraine. The team offers a route into European road racing for developing athletes.
The riders arrive with different experience. Rwanda’s Jazilla Mwamikazi became the first woman from her country to compete in Olympic mountain biking in 2024, while young Chilean Florencia Monsálvez has earned results in mountain biking. Those varied paths into the squad also give its members a chance to learn from one another.
Former professional rider Valentina Scandolara coaches the team. Training covers more than fitness: race tactics, positioning in the peloton and communication within the group all matter. The centre aims to help riders progress and gain visibility on the international stage.