Hess women's cycling team collapses due to financial struggles

2 sources1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 6:28 AM

Last updated Aug 9, 2026

Hess women's cycling team collapses due to financial struggles
Summary

The Hess women's cycling team, launched two years ago with ambitions for major success in women's cycling, has collapsed following significant financial issues. Once backed by a wealthy benefactor, the team faced challenges after losing its title sponsor due to adverse media coverage related to a director. Various riders and staff report being unpaid for extended periods, with one team supplier owed over £50,000. The team’s short-lived journey included modest results, with a 15th-place finish at the 2025 Women's Tour of Britain, failing to achieve their goals in the UCI Women's World Tour. As the next Tour de France approaches, questions arise about the viability of running a cycling team.

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By the Numbers
  • Hess team aimed to compete in major women's cycling races.
  • The team struggled financially, affecting riders and staff payments.
  • Loss of key sponsorship triggered the team's downfall.
  • Former players express feelings of betrayal and financial loss.
  • Modest results, including a 15th place at the 2025 Women's Tour of Britain, marked its brief existence.
Latest Updates
  • 6:28 AMYahoo SportsMoney problems, spooked sponsors and broken dreams
  • 6:28 AMBBC SportMoney problems and broken dreams - why is it so hard to run a cycling team?
What they're saying
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The Hess women's cycling team was owned by a rich benefactor with a background in high finance - so how did they end up failing to pay riders and staff?

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The Hess women's cycling team was owned by a rich benefactor with a background in high finance - so how did they end up failing to pay riders and staff?

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