U23
Roxane Knetemann and Michael Hepburn strengthen talent scouting at RBH
With the signing of Roxane Knetemann and Michael Hepburn, Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe is consistently focussing on a modern scouting approach.
Talent development is a core element of the team DNA at Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe. This is reflected in a unique structure that, alongside the UCI WorldTeam, includes the Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe Rookies (U23) as well as the junior team grenke – Auto Eder—an international development program widely regarded as a benchmark in international cycling.
The sporting results underline this commitment: last season, grenke – Auto Eder was by far the most successful junior team worldwide, while the Rookies formed the strongest development team of all WorldTour squads. In total, three riders made the direct step up to the WorldTeam last year, and four juniors progressed to the U23 team—a clear testament to seamless talent development.
Our long-term ambition is to be the most attractive team in professional cycling – and that is precisely why we are investing in the talents of tomorrow today.
Tim Meeusen, Director of Development at Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe, says: “For us, talent development is far more than simply feeding riders into the WorldTour. Our long-term ambition is to be the most attractive team in professional cycling – and that is precisely why we are investing in the talents of tomorrow today.”
With this latest recruitment in scouting, Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe is taking the next innovative step. In Dutchwoman Roxane Knetemann, the team gains not only a former elite athlete but also a qualified educator with many years of experience working with young athletes. In her new role, the focus will be on education, mentorship, and the long-term development of emerging talent.
The structure at Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe provides ideal conditions to develop young riders not only athletically but also personally.
Roxane Knetemann: “The structure at Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe provides ideal conditions to develop young riders not only athletically but also personally. My goal is to support talents throughout their entire journey and prepare them step by step for the demands of professional cycling.”
Joining Knetemann is Michael Hepburn, who begins a new chapter only weeks after concluding his professional career. At Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe, his focus will be on scouting as well as the structured support of early-identified talents within the development pathway.
For us, scouting is not only about identifying talent but also about creating the right environment for riders to fully realise their potential.
Michael Hepburn says: “I look forward to contributing my experience and helping shape structures that provide young riders with clear guidance. For us, scouting is not only about identifying talent but also about creating the right environment for riders to fully realise their potential.”
