AIGLE, Switzerland (BRAIN) — The Association of North American Professional Road Cyclists has joined the CPA Pro Riders Union, which represents UCI WorldTour and ProContinental racers.
The North American association is the first rider's group outside of Europe to join the CPA, and the first that represents more than one country. Italy, France, Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, Portugal and the Netherlands also are represented in the group, whose president is former world champion Gianni Bugno. Christian Vande Velde is the president of the North American group, which has 24 members.
Based on a survey of its members, ANAPRC will work with the CPA on rider safety, globalization, and the establishment of non-salary benefits from teams, including resources to help racers transition to post-racing careers. The group also wants to support the efforts of teams to establish stability through new revenue sources and growing the audience of pro cycling.
"As part of the CPA, ANAPRC aims to protect, support, and educate riders as we enter a better future of pro cycling. This requires a collective voice and participation from every cyclist in the pro peloton. I am proud to be a part of this group," said Lucas Euser, a member of the ANARPC Board of Directors.
ANAPRC is seeking candidates to serve as executive director. Michael Carcaise is serving as an interim executive director until a permanent replacement is hired.
