In a landmark development for professional cycling, Eritrean champion Biniam Girmay has embarked on a new chapter with NSN Cycling, the recently rebranded team co-owned by Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta. The three-year agreement marks a significant transition for Girmay, who departs from Belgian outfit Intermarche-Wanty Gobert after achieving unprecedented success.
Girmay’s cycling credentials are extraordinary, having made history as the first black African to claim the Tour de France’s prestigious green points jersey in 2024. His palmarès also includes stage victories at both the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia, complemented by a triumph at the challenging cobbled classic Gent-Wevelgem in 2022.
The 25-year-old phenom brings exceptional talent to his new team, particularly excelling in one-day races and Grand Tour stages featuring rolling terrain and sprint finishes. His remarkable pedal power and tactical intelligence have established him among the peloton’s most formidable competitors.
“I’m genuinely excited to join NSN Cycling and embrace this fresh atmosphere and new beginning,” Girmay stated. “Examining the team’s sprint capabilities, they’ve consistently demonstrated impressive strength. I eagerly anticipate our collaboration.”
NSN Cycling represents the transformation of the former Israel-Premier Tech team, which faced substantial controversy during the previous season. The team encountered protests related to the Israel-Gaza conflict during September’s Vuelta a España, culminating in the cancellation of the final Madrid stage amid chaotic scenes involving rider interventions.
The organizational overhaul saw co-owner Andres Iniesta’s Never Say Never entertainment company assume full financial control after previous sponsors Premier Tech and Factor withdrew support. The team has now been officially registered in Switzerland with Spanish operational structures.
Girmay’s transition reportedly involves a substantial salary increase, potentially doubling his previous seven-figure euro compensation from Intermarche-Wanty Gobert. Beyond financial considerations, the Eritrean champion emphasized the team’s commitment to developing African cycling through community initiatives, including a cycling track project in Rwanda.
“In Eritrea, cycling represents our cultural identity – it flows through our veins,” Girmay explained. “As an African competitor, I’m dedicated to advancing African cycling development. This organization has already accomplished remarkable work, and we need stakeholders who can provide opportunities, facilitate European access for riders, and deliver essential infrastructure.”
The restructured team retains considerable sprinting talent, including British riders Ethan Vernon and Jake Stewart, potentially creating one of the peloton’s most formidable lead-out trains for Girmay’s finishing capabilities.