Young rider Xabia Juan Ayuso has chosen to step back from his spot with the Spanish road team for the World Cup. The world championships are scheduled for September 25 in Wollongong, Australia, and at 19 years old, Ayuso explains the need to rebuild strength after a taxing spell with the Vuelta a España. He finished the Vuelta in third place overall, yet recognizes the heavy physical and mental toll that followed his return to Spain.
Ayuso has said the experience of competing in the Vuelta was extraordinary. Even with a highly positive result, he made the difficult decision to miss the World Cup to ensure he can represent Spain at his best. He described three intense weeks of effort and emphasized the necessity of recovery—physically and mentally—before returning to competition. The message was shared on his social media accounts, where he spoke openly about recharging and coming back stronger.
Earlier in the week, Ayuso appeared on the official national team roster announced by coach Pascal Momparler. Among teammates such as Marc Soler, who races for UAE Team Emirates, Ayuso was positioned as one of the leaders for Spain. Yet the young rider from Xàbia believed stepping aside would allow another representative to carry Spain’s hopes at the World Cup without compromising his own readiness to perform at the highest level. This move reflects a balance between national ambitions and personal preparation for future goals.
In his statement, Ayuso expressed gratitude to Coach Momparler and the federation for their trust and understanding. He stressed that the choice aims to ensure Spain has the strongest possible representation when the time is right. He added that he does not feel he is in the optimal condition to compete at the World Cup and that stepping back is a responsible decision for both the team and his career trajectory. This stance highlights his commitment to long-term development and national pride.
With an eye toward upcoming opportunities, Ayuso hopes to wear the national jersey again in due course. He noted that it is a privilege to carry his country’s colors and that future chances will arise to represent Spain with the same passion and dedication that have defined his rise as a standout young rider. While the decision disappointed some, it outlines a pragmatic path forward for a rider focused on sustaining elite performance in the demanding world of professional road cycling.
Attribution: Team communications and event coverage provided context for Ayuso’s decision and the strategic approach to national representation.