Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team is pleased to announce the signing of Liam O’Brien, who will join the Team from 1 January 2027 on a three-year contract through the end of 2029.

The 21-year-old Irishman joins from Lidl-Trek Future Racing, taking the next step in his development after three seasons within the WorldTour team's development structure.

A strong climber with an aptitude for stage racing, O’Brien has established himself as one of Ireland’s most promising young riders. His signing represents another long-term investment by Pinarello Q36.5 in young talent with the potential to develop at the highest level.

“Becoming a professional cyclist is a childhood dream coming true. I’ve learnt a huge amount over the past three years, both as a rider and as a person, and I feel ready for this next step.

“From my first conversations with Douglas and the other managers, I immediately felt a connection with the Team and a really positive environment. That was important to me. I want to keep developing, learn from the people around me and contribute to the Team from the beginning.

“I see myself as a strong climber and a rider who gets better as stage races become harder. I love the toughest days and I want to continue developing in that direction, while also becoming someone the Team can rely on in the mountains.”

O’Brien will join a performance environment built around the Pinarello Q36.5 “Factory Team model”, working directly with the Team’s technical partners on equipment, apparel and nutrition development.

“That was another exciting part of joining the Team. I’m really interested in equipment and performance, and having the opportunity to work closely with Pinarello, Q36.5 and Amacx is special. The Team is focused on getting the most out of every detail and pushing innovation, and that really appeals to me.”

“What stood out to us about Liam wasn't just his results, but his character. He's a grounded young rider with a real love for the sport, a strong work ethic, and a genuine curiosity to learn and improve every day.”

“At 21, he's already shown he can perform in the mountains and handle the demands of stage racing, but we believe he's only scratching the surface of what he's capable of. Our job now is to give him the support, guidance and opportunities to continue that progression at the professional level.”

“He's joining a team with experienced riders like Eddie Dunbar who can help him through that transition, but ultimately Liam has earned this opportunity through his talent, dedication and attitude. We're excited to welcome him to the team and see where his journey takes him over the coming years.”

For O’Brien, this next chapter also carries a deeply personal meaning. His younger brother Shane, a talented cyclist himself, passed away following a training accident in June.

Liam wanted Shane to remain part of this moment and of the journey ahead.

O’Brien will also have fellow Cork rider Eddie Dunbar alongside him as he makes the transition to professional racing.