The Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team is delighted to announce that Swiss rider Mauro Schmid will join the team from 1 January 2027, having signed a three-year agreement.

Born in Zurich, the 25-year-old joins Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team at the peak of his career following a breakthrough 2026 season that established him among the world's leading professional cyclists. Widely regarded as one of the most versatile riders in the modern peloton, Schmid delivered outstanding performances across every terrain, highlighted by a memorable Tour de France stage victory and remarkable consistency throughout the season, earning his place among the world's leading riders in the UCI rankings.

Schmid further strengthens the team's roster with a rare combination of versatility, attacking instinct and proven ability to perform across stage races, Classics and time trials—qualities that made him one of the most sought-after riders during the 2026 transfer window.

For a proudly Swiss team competing at the highest level of world cycling, welcoming one of the country's leading riders represents far more than a new signing. It is a natural expression of the team's identity, bringing together shared ambition, Swiss excellence and a commitment to continuous performance development.

The first conversations between Schmid and Team Principal Douglas Ryder, who originally gave the Swiss rider his first opportunity in the professional ranks, helped open the dialogue. Ultimately, however, it was the evolution of the entire Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team project that convinced Schmid to begin the next chapter of his career. 

The signing also reinforces the team's position as the Home of Cycling Innovation—an environment where riders, engineers and world-leading technical partners work side by side, transforming performance feedback into continuous technological progress.

One of the decisive factors behind Schmid's decision was the team's unique factory model, where athletes work directly alongside its title partners to refine equipment, accelerate innovation and pursue every possible performance advantage.

"What really makes this project different is how closely the team works with its partners. You're not simply receiving equipment—you have the opportunity to give feedback, contribute to development and help improve the products. Having brands so closely integrated into the team means you always have access to the very best equipment while also helping shape the next generation of products. That's something I'm genuinely excited about."

Schmid also sees significant opportunities for further development within the team's high-performance environment.

"Every season I've managed to take another step forward, but I still feel I haven't reached my full potential. I want to become an even more complete rider, improve my time trial and continue closing the gap in the biggest one-day races. I believe this environment gives me everything I need to keep progressing."

Douglas Ryder, Team Principal of the Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team, said:

“As a Swiss rider joining a Swiss team, there is a natural connection that makes this signing particularly meaningful. We believe our environment, working hand in hand with partners will give Mauro every opportunity to continue developing, while his experience and feedback will help us continue pushing the boundaries of innovation. We're delighted to welcome him to the team."

Mauro Schmid

• Date of birth: 4 December 1999
• Nationality: Swiss
• Place of birth: Zurich, Switzerland
• Joins Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team from 1 January 2027
• Contract: Three years