Riccitello to Ride for Decathlon CMA CGM in 2026
Table of Contents
American climber joins French team to boost GC ambitions
By Jane Smith | LOS ANGELES – 2025/09/15 11:34:25
Matthew Riccitello,fresh off a noteworthy fifth-place finish and claiming the best young rider’s jersey at the Vuelta a España,has signed a three-year contract with Decathlon CMA CGM starting in 2026. The team officially announced the agreement on Monday.
The transfer of the 23-year-old American climber follows his notable 2025 season. Team representatives have stated that the “young American climber will be a key asset for stage races and general classifications.”
“I’m really excited to join decathlon CMA CGM in 2026. I admire the team’s ambition and progression in the last few years,” Riccitello said in a team note.”I’m looking to continue progressing as a rider in stage races and grand tours, and I believe this team will push me to reach my potential.”
Riccitello is expected to lead the team’s efforts in stage races, working alongside Felix Gall and rising French talent Paul Seixas as key contenders for general classification.
Decathlon CMA CGM Strengthens Climbing Ranks
“I’m looking to continue progressing as a rider in stage races and grand tours, and I believe this team will push me to reach my potential.”
Decathlon CMA CGM’s revamped structure involves the French sports retail giant acquiring a controlling stake. The arrival of CMA CGM, a french logistics firm, as a co-sponsor brings increased financial resources to acquire top-tier talent.
Riccitello’s move to Decathlon marks the end of his three-season stint with Israel-Premier tech.He becomes the eighth rider confirmed for Decathlon in 2026.
Team manager Sébastien Joly commented that riccitello will enhance the team’s climbing capabilities, complementing their bolstered sprint and classics roster, which includes Olav Kooij (Visma-Lease a Bike), Dan Hole (Lidl-Trek), and Tijjs Benote (Visma-Lease a Bike).
“The profile of Matthew Riccitello has interested us for several seasons. He is an excellent climber, as he once again demonstrated at the Vuelta with a beautiful white jersey and a fifth place ” Joly said. “After reinforcing our sprint squad, we are now reinforcing our climbing group.”
This high-profile agreement represents a significant step forward for Riccitello, solidifying his position among the leading American cyclists in the professional ranks for 2026, notably after his strong performance on challenging climbs in Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Riccitello choose to join Decathlon CMA CGM?
Riccitello stated that he admires the team’s ambition and progression and believes they will help him reach his full potential in stage races and grand tours.
What role will Riccitello play in his new team?
He is expected to spearhead the team’s stage racing ambitions and will be a key contender for general classification alongside Felix Gall and Paul Seixas.
What does CMA CGM’s sponsorship mean for the team?
The arrival of CMA CGM as a co-sponsor brings increased financial resources, allowing the team to acquire top-tier talent and enhance their competitive capabilities.
