TCA created an Elected Rider Council to give riders a direct voice in decision-making processes, empowering them to advocate for their interests and shape the future of the sport.

TCA has grown its membership base, bringing together riders from UCI Women’s WorldTeams, ProTeams, and Continental teams, creating a united front across the sport.

TCA conducts an Annual Rider Survey to monitor shifts in women’s cycling and identify key challenges. The insights gained inform our advocacy and shape our organisational actions.

TCA offers webinars with industry experts for rider members on relevant topics impacting their health and cycling careers. Past webinars include topics such as Exercise-Induced Iliac Artery Endofibrosis (EIAE), Rider Agents & Contracts, Pelvic, Vulvar and Perineal health, and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S).

We initiate educational and awareness campaigns on important topics within the sport. For example, the “Right to Say No” Campaign spotlighted riders’ rights, encouraging them to speak out against abuse, fostering a safer and more inclusive cycling environment.

Our mentorship programme provides essential tools and resources for rider career development and planning, focused on supporting riders both during and after their professional cycling careers.

In partnership with Strava and building on the existing TCAMP programme, we offer a financial grant and mentorship programme that connects young aspiring riders with experienced professionals who offer guidance and inspiration to help progress their careers.

Each year, TCA provides professional guidance on contracts, visas, payments, and other workplace concerns, helping riders manage the complexities of their careers.

Our TCA legal team assists riders in navigating financial disputes, such as securing team bank guarantees (in instances like B&B Hotels, ZAAF and Lifeplus-Wahoo), ensuring compliance with UCI and national regulations.

We work with riders to bring ethics cases to the UCI Ethics Commission and National Ethics Committees, addressing misconduct and advocating for integrity within the sport.

One in four riders hold a second job in addition to their racing career, reflecting the financial pressures many face in the sport.

More than half of riders outside the Women’s World Tour earn less than €10,000 annually, underscoring the financial challenges that exist beyond the top tier of teams.

The most common reason riders leave the sport prematurely is the perceived danger of racing, with many citing safety as a key factor in their decision.

Nearly one in five riders report feeling unsafe within their cycling team, highlighting concerns that go beyond just the physical risks of racing.

Riders continue to rank the TCA’s free legal services as the most important benefit of membership, emphasizing the critical support they offer in navigating contractual and legal challenges.

Source: 2024 Annual TCA Rider survey