Uno-X Mobility has made headlines as the first team to unveil its selection for the upcoming Tour de France. The announcement, playfully shared on the Norwegian team’s social media channels, signals a significant shift as it marks the absence of veteran rider Alexander Kristoff in what would have been his final year as a professional cyclist.
The team’s announcement highlighted a mix of seasoned athletes and newcomers, with three riders set to make their Tour debuts. The formation is particularly noted for its capacity to engage in aggressive racing and actively influence the outcomes of the stages. Thor Hushovd, the general manager of Uno-X Mobility, remarked that this year’s selection process was the toughest they have faced yet, emphasizing the depth of talent within the team. “Some very strong riders miss out – and that speaks to how far we’ve come as a team. We’re still chasing the big one: a Tour stage win,” he stated.
Kristoff’s impressive Tour record includes eleven participations and four stage victories, but Hushovd described the decision to leave him out as “incredibly tough.” He expressed confidence in the chosen sprinter, Søren Wærenskjold, who has demonstrated his ability to compete against top-tier racing talent. Alongside Stian Edvardsen Fredheim, Wærenskjold is expected to form a formidable sprinting duo.
Additionally, there is excitement surrounding the participation of twin brothers Anders and Tobias Halland Johannessen, who will race together in the Tour for the first time. Anders earned his spot following a successful June campaign that included a stage win at the Tour of Slovenia, while Tobias showcased his abilities with a strong fifth-place finish overall in the Critérium du Dauphiné.
The team’s aspirations for the upcoming Tour are clear, as they aim not just to compete but to actively shape the narrative of the race. Team manager Gabriel Rasch emphasized their objective: “We have riders for every scenario: breakaways, climbs, sprints. From stage one to the final day in Paris, we’ll be chasing results.”
With a well-rounded roster, Uno-X Mobility is poised to make an impact in the Tour de France 2025, marking a new chapter in their pursuit of success.