Duranguesa

After 21 seasons competing at the highest international level, the Bizkaia-Durango team will not hit the roads in the year 2024.

Upon realizing that continuity in the UCI Continental category is not feasible due to the new minimum budgetary requirements imposed by the Spanish Cycling Federation (RFEC) for 2024, the team's sports management has made the difficult decision to cease activities in the upcoming season.

It has been over 20 years during which we have witnessed and experienced firsthand many changes and progress in women's cycling. We would have loved to continue being a part of this growth and will work towards returning at some point in the future, if circumstances permit.

We take great pride in having contributed to the development of cycling, especially in the Basque cycling scene, throughout all these seasons. We have provided the opportunity for around 300 cyclists to compete in some of the best races in the world, from the beginnings in 2003, winning the Grande Boucle with Joane Somarriba, to 2023, where we were one of the few Continental teams to participate in two Grand Tours: the Giro (present in 18 of the last 21 editions) and La Vuelta (in its first proper edition).

This sustained presence in races of the highest level would not have been possible without the trust of race organizers who have supported our team from day one to the last. Therefore, we must express our deepest gratitude especially to Giuseppe Rivolta, for always welcoming us at Giro, and to Femmy and Huub van Issum, organizers of the Ronde van Drenthe.

Of course, we also want to thank all the cyclists who have worn the colours of Bizkaia-Durango throughout history for their dedication and effort both in sports and on a personal level. And to all the people who, in various roles, have been part of this team. Despite being one of the teams with the lowest budget on the international scene, we are convinced that we have had the best people possible, both on and off the bike.

We cannot finish without thanking all the sponsors and collaborators who have allowed us to make many dreams come true for more than two decades, especially the Durango City Council and the Provincial Council of Bizkaia, which have given their name to the project for the majority of seasons. Also, thank you to the media for sharing our journey for over two decades. And, of course, big thanks to all the fans, to all of you who have accompanied us for so many years, making us feel your love and support in races and also on social media. Cycling would not be the same without your strength and support. We will always carry you in our hearts.

ESKERRIK ASKO!