Closer cooperation between the UCI and Shimano to reinforce cycling solidarity actions around the world

Industry-leading cycle component manufacturer Shimano Inc. has donated 50 Ultegra Di2 groupsets to the UCI Solidarity Program to help the UCI in providing more training to cycling mechanics from emerging and established cycling countries.

After his election, UCI President David Lappartient created the UCI Solidarity and Emerging Cycling Countries Commission to foster the development of cycling in areas around the world where support is greatly needed. The objectives of the Commission, which include formulating recommendations to the UCI Management Committee, were voted favorable by all members and are essential parts of the UCI Agenda 2022.

On average, the UCI World Cycling Center in Aigle welcomes over 120 to 130 countries per year to receive all sorts of trainings including cycling mechanics. It is as crucial to educate about bicycle parts and most importantly how to dismantle or assemble a bike as it is to teach how to ride. In a more concrete way, these sets will partly be used to build bikes for trainees competing at the European Men’s and Women’s Under-23 worldwide programs.

Shimano Inc. has been a UCI partner since 1999. The company provides a series of technical services at a variety of cycling events around the world. Collaborating with Shimano Inc. both on the field of cycling competition and on development of the sport is a new chapter that should strengthened the partnership between one of the most prestigious companies in cycling business and the world’s cycling governing body.

“It is only with support from industry leaders like Shimano Inc. that we will be able to make a great difference around the world. In addition to overseeing cycling competition, the UCI also has the responsibility to promote and develop the sport globally. This donation will serve as part of the education program the UCI World Cycling Center provides to our National Federations in order to form cycling mechanics. As part of our global bike donation program, once the bikes are assembled they will be shipped and be donated to National Federations of emerging countries. We highly value Shimano’s donation to the UCI Solidarity actions and are very excited about the company’s support. We also look forward to engaging further with other industry leaders to help us fulfill our institutional responsibilities.” said David Lappartient.

Hennie Stamsnijder, Shimano Europe Sports Marketing team leader: “Not only are we dedicated and committed bike racing fans but many of us have also benefited from national level coaching. This is our opportunity to give something back to the racing scene, to support the many behind-the-scenes heroes, and indirectly support emerging young cycling talents across the world. We are proud to support the UCI in this way”

To learn more and support the UCI solidarity action please contact: internationalrelations@uci.ch

NOTES TO EDITORS

1.       Embargo: For immediate release

2.       Images: High res versions of the above images can be downloaded here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/dx3732lrsm99rb9/AABxuYKf3Y-pV67kKDUmeAiUa?dl=0

3.       About Shimano Europe: Founded in 1921, Shimano is dedicated to helping its customers get closer to nature, supporting people to realize their dreams and create new lifestyles. That comes with the desire to create outstanding cycling products and apparel. With almost 100 years' experience in creating internationally renowned bicycle components, Shimano is proud to have developed products that continue to take countless athletes to victory and provide the means for limitless global bicycle journeys. For more information see www.shimano.com