Abel Balderstone signs with UAE Team Emirates–XRG on three-year deal

UAE Team Emirates-XRG are pleased to announce the signing of Abel Balderstone, with the Spanish rider agreeing to a three-year contract that will see him join the team through to the end of the 2029 season.

The 26-year-old Catalan joins from Caja Rural–Seguros RGA, having established himself as a consistent stage racer and climber.

Balderstone enjoyed a successful 2025 campaign, winning the Spanish national time trial championship. His progression has continued in 2026, finishing 4th in GC at O Gran Camiño and going on to complete his first Tour de France this summer.

A versatile rider who is at his best on demanding, hilly terrain and in stage races, Balderstone will add further strength and depth to the UAE Team Emirates-XRG roster while continuing his development at WorldTour level.

Abel Balderstone: “For me, joining UAE Team Emirates-XRG is a dream that I’ve had since I was a kid. I’m really excited and highly motivated to begin this new project, where I’m looking forward to growing as a rider alongside the team.

“I’m excited to enjoy the experience and to learn from all the riders in the team. I believe this will be a very important step in my career and an environment where I can show the best version of myself, continue improving as a rider and make a big step forward.

“I’d like to thank the team for giving me this great opportunity and I’m really looking forward to enjoying this journey together.”

Mauro Gianetti (CEO & Team Principal): “We are very pleased to welcome Abel into our team. He is a rider who has shown good progression over the past few seasons.

“We believe he has the qualities to fit very well into our structure and also the potential to continue developing. He is entering an important period of his career and we are happy to welcome him to the team for the next three years.”