TCA publishes the full report for the 2024 Annual Rider Survey
For Immediate Release
The Cyclists' Alliance (TCA) has published a comprehensive report from its 2024 Annual Rider Survey, providing an in-depth look at the current state of women's professional cycling. While the survey highlights some positive developments within the sport, it also underscores the significant challenges many female cyclists still face in their professional careers. The gap between riders competing in the World Tour and those outside it continues to widen, revealing persistent disparities within the sport.
Key Findings
The Demographic
►The survey results represent the views of 100 female professional cyclists from 20 different countries and 45 different teams
Salaries
►Salaries are trending positively overall since 2018 but the disparity between World Tour and all other riders is increasing
►27% of non-World Tour riders still receive no salary or income
►Outside Women’s World Tour, 55% earn less than 10,000 EUR a year
Contracts and Employment
►50% of riders have a contract which is only one year long
Work and Education Outside Cycling
►53% of riders surveyed rely on cycling as a sole source of income
►1 in 4 riders surveyed work a second job alongside racing
►86% have either completed or are enrolled in third level /post-secondary education - this is down from 98% in 2023
Professional Support
►44% of riders sought professional assistance when negotiating or signing a contract
►55% of riders surveyed currently work with an agent
Life in a Cycling Team
►Nearly 1 in 5 riders have said they feel unsafe in their cycling team
►The percentage of riders reporting that they feel unsafe in their team has doubled since 2023
Major Challenges for the Peloton
►The most common reason to leave the sport early overall is that racing is too dangerous
►Outside of the World Tour, financial reasons are the most important issue and a cause for riders to consider leaving the sport early
TCA and the Peloton
►Riders continue to value TCA’s free legal advice as the most important service provided to members, followed closely by educational resources and webinars
Iris Slappendel, current President of TCA comments: "While we are encouraged by signs of progress, the 2024 survey clearly shows that the journey to equality in women's pro cycling is far from over. The growing divide between World Tour riders and those in other tiers highlights the need for systemic change. Recognizing these issues, TCA raised concerns with the UCI and sent a letter with several recommendations for change. We remain committed to advocating for all riders, ensuring that every woman in the peloton has the support and resources she needs to thrive."
Next Steps
TCA urges fans and stakeholders in women's cycling to read and share the findings of this report. Collaboration is key to driving meaningful change in the sport, and TCA is committed to working together with all involved. In the coming weeks, TCA will engage with stakeholders to address the challenges highlighted in the report.
Further Information
This is the only annual survey for international women's professional cycling, gathering both qualitative and quantitative feedback from riders worldwide. It offers unique insights into the current state of the sport and the challenges faced by cyclists.
For all enquiries and interview requests, please contact communications@cyclistsalliance.org
View the PDF below for access to the full 2024 Annual Rider Survey report.
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