The 2023 Irish Junior National time trial champion, Adam Rafferty, has signed with the Hagens Berman Axeon Cycling Team. Adam, following in the footsteps of older brother Darren Rafferty, joins Axeon from Team 31 Jolly Cycles U19.
“Joining Axeon has been my goal ever since Darren joined,” said Adam. “Seeing all the experiences and incredible opportunities that this team has given Darren, really shows me that it’s exactly where I want to be. Talking with Axel this year really confirmed that Axeon is the perfect home for me. And of course, I couldn’t have been happier when I signed the contract!”
Adam’s 2023 Palmares: Ireland ITT Junior Championships - 1st place World Junior ITT Championships - 8th place European Junior ITT Championships - 10th place Tour du Carmausin-Ségala Jr - 1st place
The 18-year-old from County Tyrone, Ireland believes that at the moment, his best strength is time-trialing, but he also enjoys climbing. “This year I’m really looking forward to learning the ways of U23 racing and helping the team get some victories,” he said. “Later, I’m hoping to progress further as a GC rider.”
“It is a bit bittersweet to see Darren depart for the World Tour but we’re excited to have Adam join the team,” said team owner and director Axel Merckx. “Adam has been a stagiaire with Jayco so we naturally offered him a chance to grow another year with us.”
Adam is the fourth rider to join the Hagens Berman Axeon Cycling Team in 2024 after Ben Wiggins, Hamish McKenzie, and Mattia Sambinello.
