Rui Costa changes team

A sixth different professional team in Rui Costa’s career! After Benfica (2007-08), Caisse d’Epargne (now Movistar, 2009-13), Lampre-Merida (2014-16), UAE Emirates (2017-22) and Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert (2023), the Portuguese all just 37 years old has signed up for next season with EF Education EasyPost. Crowned world champion ten years ago in Florence, Rui Costa honored his rainbow edging this season, winning five victories including a stage of the Vueltawhile he had not won anything since August 2020. The Portuguese with 32 career successes will therefore bring all his experience to the American team, where he will be one of the rare thirty-somethings, with Rigoberto Uran, Richard Carapaz , Esteban Chaves and Michael Valgren.

Rui Costa winner last Sunday

“Everyone, including me, can grow alongside young riders. I grow every year, I learn despite my age. It’s true that I like to help but I also like to learn and improve. Cycling is a passion. I’ve been a professional for about 17 years now and I’m still as excited today as I was 15 years ago when cycling was everything to me. Motivation is something that grows the more you experience cycling. I want to improve every year and this year, with EF Education-EasyPost, I’ve heard really good things about Cannondale bikes, so I think I’ll be on the right bike to improve. The goals are to keep winning. Starting this season by winning (on the Trofeo Calvia in January, editor’s note), ending by winning (on the Japan Cup last Sunday, editor’s note), it gives me additional motivation for next year. I want to continue in the same direction. It’s my aim. » Proof that he is still in good shape despite his advanced age, Rui Costa has competed in 84 days of racing this season, including two Grand Tours, and has achieved twelve Top 10 finishes, in addition to his five victories.