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Good money, no team tactics and cute dogs: the rise of pro cycling freelancers

Many US riders are turning their back on the sport in Europe to ride in gravel races back home. There is less support but more opportunities

At the end of the season he chose to leave the World Tour and switch to gravel full-time, drawn to the agency over his career path and the financial opportunity it presented. Since its zenith during the Armstrong era in the early 2000s, American cycling has been on a slow and steady decline, eroded by drug scandals and the rising danger of distracted car and truck drivers. “It’s a constant game of prioritization,” says Stetina, “and the biggest challenge is managing your time.” Juggling responsibilities isn’t for everyone, yet a growing number of riders are eschewing teams for the freedom that comes with privateering – and the opportunity to make more money.

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