Tom Pidcock is poised to make his debut with Q36.5 Pro Cycling at the upcoming AlUla Tour in Saudi Arabia, Cycling Weekly has learned.
Pidcock, 25, is expected to begin his season with the Swiss-registered ProTeam at the Middle Eastern stage race, which runs from January 28 to February 1. While the specifics of his debut season remain unclear, sources have confirmed that his first race with Q36.5 will kick off at the AlUla Tour, marking the start of his new chapter after leaving Ineos Grenadiers.
Following the five-day stage race in Saudi Arabia, Pidcock is likely to return to Europe to begin preparations for the Classics season. Official confirmation of his race schedule is anticipated from the team in the coming days.
The British rider, who has typically launched his season at the Volta ao Algarve in recent years, has not raced at the AlUla Tour during his time with Ineos Grenadiers. However, Q36.5 has participated in the event in both of the last two seasons, making it a fitting venue for Pidcock’s debut.
Pidcock made the move to Q36.5 during the off-season after parting ways with Ineos Grenadiers by mutual agreement. His long-time coach, Kurt Bogaerts, also joined the Swiss team as Head of Technical Performance. Bogaerts, along with Pidcock’s soigneur, Xenia De Roose, will continue working with the rider in his new professional home.
“I’ve always found first impressions to be crucial, and I’m pleased to say that my first impressions of the Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team have been very positive,” Bogaerts said after confirming his move to the team. “It’s incredibly special to continue working with Tom. Xenia and I have been a part of his career since 2018, and together we’ve achieved great results. I look forward to continuing that journey in this new team environment.”
In a notable family twist, Pidcock’s younger brother, Joe Pidcock, has also joined Q36.5, following the closure of the road arm of his previous team, Trinity Racing. This will be the first time the two brothers will race under the same professional banner. Alongside them, fellow British rider Mark Donovan will also represent Q36.5 in 2025.
Doug Ryder, the team principal of Q36.5, expressed enthusiasm about the team’s new chapter. “At the end of the year, it’s natural to reflect, but I’m looking forward,” Ryder said. “How could I not? With the addition of our new riders and staff, the Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team is about to embark on an exciting new adventure.”
As part of his move to Q36.5, Pidcock will ride Scott road bikes, a deal that is part of the team’s existing partnership with the Swiss brand. However, the double Olympic champion will continue to race on Pinarello bikes in his off-road events, including mountain biking and cyclo-cross races.
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