As the year turns over, plenty of athletes are on the move between teams. That includes several Canadians racers, of course. Between cross country, downhill and enduro, here’s a rolling summary of Canadian team changes.
We’ll keep adding to the list as more news drops, of course. But here’s a start.
Laurie Arseneault leaves Pittstop Racing
After a few years of helping establish the Pittstop Racing program out of Bromont, Que, Laurie Arseneault is moving on. Pittstop will remain focused on supporting Canadians chasing the World Cup dream. Arseneault hinted she’ll be spending more time on skinny tires.
Ryder Willson to Team High Country
Vancouver Island’s Ryder Wilson just announced he’s joining UCI downhill outfit, Team High Country for 2026. He’ll finish his last year of junior World Cup racing with the program before heading into the elite ranks.
Haley Smith leaves Trek Driftless
After two years with Trek Driftless gravel and XC marathon program, Haley Smith is off the Factory program. The Ontario Olympian will announce a new program soon. Her time with Trek saw Smith race Cape Epic, win Gravel Migration and race the new Gravel Burn, all in 2025, along with a roster of Life Time events and other North American races.
Geza Rodgers of AGR Racing
The past downhill national champ (U19, 2024) and endure national champ (U21, 2022), is leaving AGR Racing. During that time, the B.C. rider’s landed Enduro World Cup top 10s, world champs top 15s and a series of North American wins and podiums.
Armada says goodbye, and hello
The Armada had incredible success with its roster of riders, from national championships to Nicole Bradbury’s World Cup win. The point of a development team is to develop riders, though. So, as the team’s current roster moves on to bigger and better things, the Armada is getting a fresh start for 2026. New riders, same drive to develop younger Canadian talent.
Tyler Orschel to KMC Nukeproof
After a career-best season almost left him without a team, Tyler Orschel found a new home at the last minute. And not just any home, either. The Canadian joins the KMC Nukeproof program, run by the legendary Bart Brentjens. This should make for an exciting season for Orschel!
Ian Ackert joins Pivot Cycles-OTE
As we reported, Ian Ackert was left without a home when Trek Future Racing shuttered. He’s now with Quebec’s Pivot Cycles-OTE.
Gunnar Holmgren off Trek Factory Racing
After one year with the powerhouse Trek Factory Racing program, Ontario Olympian Gunnar Holmgren is departing the squad.
Lucas Cruz off Norco, sort of
Pemberton, B.C.’s Lucas Cruz has spent a ton of time at Norco Factory programs. After battling back from a brutal injury at Fort William in 2024 to get back to World Cup racing, Cruz is setting sail from Norco Race Division. He’s not leaving the brand, though. Cruz says he’ll still race select events but spend more time on new frontiers with Norco.