Cycling Ireland made changes to the high performance pathway 2026 for junior riders and, in the first year of those changes, some riders have declined their places (Photo: Bryan Keane-Inpho)
Cycling Ireland has announced a much smaller group of riders for its high performance pathway programme in 2026. Five riders have been confirmed, including two BMX athletes, compared to 13 young cyclists last year.
This time around, accepting a place on the programme meant riders had to give up their own coaches in favour of working with coaches assigned by Cycling Ireland.
That change was aimed at making the programme more professional – mirroring moves in pro teams and some U23 development squads.
It was also intended to ensure the riders’ performances could be managed more cohesively as a group through the season, when the cyclists would aim to peak for different events.
However, in the first year of the change, it seems the need to switch coaches has proven unpopular. Stickybottle understands some of those riders who applied hoped their may be flexibility around switching coaches. And when that was not the case, they turned down their spots.
Cycling Ireland has now confirmed a number of riders selected declined their places. However, there are still five very strong riders chosen. They include first-year juniors Emer Heverin and James Logue, second-year junior Hugh Óg Mulhearne and BMX riders Carly Hayes and Reuben Byrne.
The fact that some riders opted not to join the programme this year does not mean they won’t be supported by Cycling Ireland. They will still be invited to camps and, ultimately, they will still also be selected onto junior national teams in 2026.
“The programme is evolving this year with the introduction of in-house coaching, creating a more integrated and comprehensive support system for riders,” said high performance pathway programme lead Stuart Balfour.
“This change allows us to provide consistent day-to-day coaching alongside enhanced services from the Sport Ireland Institute, including strength and conditioning, nutrition, psychology, and physiology support.
“Beyond physical preparation, the programme delivers education through workshops and ongoing guidance, equipping riders with the knowledge and tools to prepare for long-term success.
“Our long-term vision is clear: to establish a seamless pathway from youth into elite, preparing riders not just for immediate performance but for sustainable careers at the highest level.
“Through personalised coaching, holistic development, and targeted support, we aim to build resilience, technical expertise, and performance habits that will serve athletes throughout their careers.”