Exciting news awaits the cycling world as Safiya Al Sayegh, the UAE National Champion and pro-rider of the Word Tour Team, along with Zahra Hussein, a pro-rider of the UAE Continental team, are set to make their debut in the European Circuit. Their debut will take place at the prestigious UCI Women continental race, the Princess Ana Vasa Tour, scheduled from 28th to 30th July in Poland.
Valentino Villa, the Manager of the UAE Development Team, expressed enthusiasm about their participation, highlighting the team’s unique approach aimed at nurturing and enhancing athletes’ cycling skills without undue pressures. This inclusive format allows world tour and continental riders to gain invaluable experience by participating in both world tour races and development races.
For Safiya Al Sayegh, this European Circuit debut presents an opportunity to further enhance her physical fitness and gain international exposure, setting the stage for her upcoming participation in the Glasgow World Championship in August. On the other hand, it marks a significant milestone for Zahra Hussein, who is part of the UAE Continental Team, as she embarks on her first experience at this level of competition.
María Camila García, Head of Strategy at UAE Team ADQ, shared the team’s commitment to developing and nurturing local talent, with the ultimate goal of enabling them to compete on the global stage. Safiya and Zahra’s participation in the Princess Ana Vasa Tour holds special significance as part of the Emirati Talent Development Programme.
The Princess Ana Vasa Tour, a highly anticipated three-stage race, will challenge the cyclists with varying distances. Stage one covers 111 km, stage two stretches across 123 km, and the final stage features a 14 km long individual time trial, promising thrilling moments for both the participants and cycling enthusiasts alike.