Does Mexico Have a Cycling Team? The Rise of Mexican Pro Cycling

For decades, if you asked someone about the big names in professional cycling, they’d list teams from Europe, Australia, or maybe the USA. Mexico was rarely part of that conversation. But the landscape has shifted dramatically. So, does Mexico have a cycling team? The short answer is yes-and not just one, but several competitive squads operating on the global stage.

The most prominent name right now is Israel-Premier Tech, which features top Mexican talent like Carlos Ochoa and Fernando Gaviria (though Gaviria is Colombian, he races for this team). Wait, let’s correct that: Carlos Ochoa rides for Israel-Premier Tech, a UCI WorldTeam. This is a massive deal because it means Mexican riders are competing against the absolute best in the world, including Tour de France winners.

The Current State of Mexican Professional Teams

To understand the "yes," we need to look at the structure of professional cycling. There isn’t just one "Mexican national team" in the sense of a single club representing the country year-round. Instead, there are national teams for specific events and private clubs that compete internationally.

The Selección Nacional de Ciclismo de México represents the country in multi-day tours like the Vuelta a Colombia or the Tour de l’Avenir. These teams wear the green, white, and red of the Mexican flag. They are funded by the Comité Olímpico Mexicano (Mexican Olympic Committee) and aim to develop talent for the Olympics and World Championships.

However, the day-to-day professional racing happens through continental teams. The most notable recent development was the rise of Movistar Team collaborations and the emergence of domestic squads. While Mexico doesn’t currently have its own UCI WorldTeam (the highest tier, like Ineos Grenadiers or Jumbo-Visma), it has strong presence in UCI ProTeams and Continental teams.

Who Are the Stars?

You can’t talk about Mexican cycling without mentioning Carlos Ochoa. He is arguably the face of modern Mexican cycling. Born in Tlalnepantla, Ochoa has proven that Mexican riders can win stages in Europe. His victory at the Tour de Suisse and consistent top-10 finishes in Grand Tours have put Mexico on the map.

Then there’s Alberto Betancur-wait, no, he’s Colombian. Let’s stick to Mexicans. Jesús Hernández and Jonathan Monsalve (Colombian again, sorry). Let’s focus on Sebastián Molano? No, he’s Colombian too. It’s easy to mix them up because Latin American cycling is dominated by Colombia. But Mexico has its own heroes. Carlos Ochoa is the standout. Also, Miguel Ángel López is Colombian. Okay, let’s be precise: Carlos Ochoa is the primary example. Other rising talents include David González and Ricardo Rodríguez, who compete in regional tours and aim for bigger contracts.

Historically, Julio César Arrieta was a legend, winning the Vuelta a España stages and establishing Mexico as a climbing powerhouse. His legacy paved the way for today’s generation.

Why Doesn't Mexico Have Its Own WorldTeam?

This is the million-dollar question. Having a UCI WorldTeam costs millions of dollars annually. You need sponsors, logistics, staff, and salaries for 30+ riders. Most countries don’t have one. Only nations with deep corporate backing (like UAE with UAE Team Emirates) or massive fan bases (like Spain with Movistar) manage this.

Mexico has huge potential. The population is large, and the terrain is perfect for cycling. But the infrastructure for *professional* team management is still developing. Sponsors often prefer putting money into established European teams rather than building a new one from scratch. However, this could change. If a major Mexican corporation decides to invest, a Mexican WorldTeam could emerge within the next decade.

Cycling Routes in Mexico: A Hidden Gem

While the pro teams grab headlines, the real joy of cycling in Mexico lies in its routes. If you’re looking to ride, Mexico offers some of the most diverse and challenging landscapes in the world.

Highland Climbs: Central Mexico, around Mexico City and Puebla, sits at high altitudes. The climbs here are steep and thin-air intense. Routes like the ascent to Puebla or the roads leading to Toluca are grueling but rewarding. The air is crisp, and the views of volcanoes like Popocatépetl are breathtaking.

Coastal Flats: On the other hand, the Pacific coast near Puerto Vallarta or the Caribbean side near Playa del Carmen offers flat, fast riding. These areas are popular for expat cycling groups and tourists looking for leisurely rides with ocean breezes.

Desert Challenges: Northern states like Sonora and Chihuahua provide vast, open roads. The heat is a factor, but the solitude and scale of the desert make for unforgettable endurance rides. Events like the Vuelta a Sonora attract international attention for these reasons.

How to Get Involved

If you’re inspired by the pros or want to explore these routes, getting started is easier than you think. Join local cycling clubs in cities like Guadalajara, Monterrey, or CDMX. Many offer group rides for all levels. Check out online forums like Strava segments in Mexico to find popular routes. And keep an eye on the UCI America Tour calendar to see where Mexican teams are racing-you might even catch a live event.

The Future Looks Bright

Mexico may not have a standalone WorldTeam yet, but its riders are proving they belong at the top. With Carlos Ochoa leading the charge and more young talent emerging, the gap is closing. Plus, the country’s natural beauty makes it a premier destination for cycling tourism. Whether you’re watching from home or pedaling up a volcano, Mexican cycling is worth your attention.