Phoenix 24
A strategic signing strengthens Spain’s ambitions for 2027.
PAMPLONA, SPAIN
Movistar Team has officially signed Belgian national road champion Rune Herregodts from UAE Team Emirates-XRG, securing the 28-year-old cyclist on a three-year contract through 2029. The transfer represents another step in the Spanish team’s rebuilding strategy, bringing an experienced WorldTour rider from the powerhouse squad led by Tadej Pogačar.
Herregodts arrives following two seasons with UAE Team Emirates-XRG, where he developed his reputation as a powerful and versatile rider capable of supporting team leaders while remaining competitive in demanding one-day races. His departure gives Movistar an opportunity to strengthen areas of its roster that have undergone significant changes ahead of the 2027 campaign.
The Belgian rider enjoyed a notable achievement in June when he captured his national road championship, adding a prestigious title to a professional record that includes six victories. His previous successes include the 2021 Ronde van Drenthe, stage victories at the Vuelta a Andalucía and Sazka Tour in 2022, and the overall classification of the 2024 ZLM Tour.
His performances reflect a combination of endurance, sustained power and tactical versatility. Those qualities are particularly valuable in the northern Classics, time trials and races where positioning and collective teamwork can determine the outcome.
The signing also addresses a specific sporting requirement for Movistar. With Spanish rider Iván García Cortina departing for Alpecin-Premier Tech, the team needs additional strength in the Classics. Herregodts offers experience in those competitions while providing support for its broader racing program.
However, his arrival is not exclusively about replacing an outgoing rider. Movistar is seeking to establish a more competitive structure that combines experienced professionals with emerging talent, creating opportunities for individual results without sacrificing collective objectives.
Herregodts has welcomed that approach, explaining that he sees meaningful progress in the Spanish organization’s performance and believes the environment will allow him to pursue opportunities in breakaways and Classics.
The Belgian also revealed that conversations with compatriot Cian Uijtdebroeks helped reinforce his decision. Their future collaboration could provide additional tactical options in stage races, particularly when controlling difficult terrain or protecting team leaders.
Movistar manager Sebastián Unzué described the recruit as a rider entering his competitive maturity, emphasizing the experience and versatility he can contribute across different racing conditions.
From a broader perspective, the transfer illustrates how professional cycling teams compete not only for established Grand Tour contenders but also for specialists whose tactical contributions can influence entire racing programs.
For UAE Team Emirates-XRG, Herregodts’ departure forms part of the normal evolution of a roster built around exceptionally demanding competitive objectives. For Movistar, the move offers an experienced rider seeking greater opportunities for individual success.
The financial terms of the agreement have not been publicly disclosed, and his precise 2027 racing calendar remains to be confirmed.
The ultimate significance of the signing will emerge on the road. Herregodts brings proven capabilities, but converting those qualities into victories will depend on his integration into Movistar’s tactical system and the opportunities the team provides.
The Story Continues Beyond the Headlines.