We are now accepting applications from ambitious road racing teams wishing to secure Elite Development Status for the 2022 season.

First launched in November 2020, the Elite Development Team status is awarded to recognise the work of teams to support young, talented riders on their journey towards success on the world stage.

Bridging the gap from club teams to those operating at UCI Continental level, teams which meet a set minimum criterion will be selected based on the quality of support which they offer to their riders – providing a platform to develop, a comprehensive race programme and race day support.

After reviewing the status and its supporting processes at the end of the 2021 season, applications for 2022 are now open and will close on Sunday 9 January.

The application form for interested teams can be found here, and sheet to submit rider and race programme details can be downloaded here. Interested teams are encouraged to contact road@britishcycling.org.uk for further information.

Essential criteria

• Teams must have between six and 16 riders.
• All riders must be Elite, 1^st or 2^nd Cat (and progressing 3^rd Cat riders for women’s teams).
• A minimum of 30% of riders should be under-23 for men’s teams and 50% under-28 for women’s teams.
• Teams must consist of a minimum of 80% British riders.
• All staff members shall hold a valid British Cycling licence with the requisite endorsement i.e. Team Manager.
• Teams must have an appointed Rider Welfare Officer who is not related to the team manager.
• Riders must list the team as their primary club (road).
• Teams are required to ride at least 70% of the National Road Series events (five of seven for men’s teams and six of eight for women’s teams) with a minimum of four riders.
• Payment of a £150 registration fee in addition to the standard affiliation fee.

Expectations

• Support for the National Road Series and National Circuit Series.
• Meeting a proportion of riders' expenses for national and international races.
• Providing riders with access to the required equipment needed to compete (e.g. a team bike, clothing, equipment).
• Staff presence at National Series events to provide support before, during and after the race for their riders.
• Provision of a team car with requisite racking and equipment in order to provide a service role within the race convoy. Team cars must have a minimum of two members of staff while in the race convoy (e.g. a driver and mechanic).

Benefits for teams

• Recognition as an Elite Development Team.
• Entry guaranteed for up to eight riders in all National Road Series events.
• Team information featured on the British Cycling website with links to team website and social media channels.
• Education courses and workshops provided for riders and team staff. This will cover areas including anti-doping and safeguarding.