Cycling teams raced extensively in 2026 to secure promotion under the UCI system, with some riders competing over 80 days.
UCI promotion system drives race participation
In 2026, several cycling teams participated in a large number of races to accumulate points under the UCI's promotion and relegation system. The French team TotalEnergies led the list with 116 races contested, closely followed by Lotto Intermarché with 115 starts. Second-division teams also active
Two other second-division teams, Cofidis with 111 races and Unibet Rose Rockets with 110 races, also occupied prominent positions in the rankings. Groupama - FDJ United reached the 100 starts mark. Behind them, three teams shared the same total of 97 races: XDS Astana Team, Pinarello Q36.5, and Tudor Pro Cycling. Strategy to maximize points
The high number of races for these teams is driven by the need to secure points for promotion and to be invited to major races such as the Tour de France. Sports directors often split their teams into multiple groups to compete in smaller races where they can accumulate points more effectively. Riders face intense schedules
Finishing in the top positions in smaller races can yield more points than lower finishes in major events. This strategy allows teams to collect necessary points even if it means exhausting their riders. Riders from the most active teams often exceed 80 days of racing per year. Physical demands on athletes
For example, Baptiste Veistroffer and Liam Slock from Lotto Intermarché raced for 85 and 83 days, respectively. Other notable riders include Guillaume Martin and Rémy Rochas from Groupama - FDJ United, who raced for 82 and 81 days, and Mathis Le Berre from TotalEnergies, who raced for 80 days. The extensive racing schedule places significant physical demands on the riders, with mechanics and soigneurs working continuously to support them throughout the season.
