Date: 10 March 2021
Following in the footsteps of alumnus Kevin Vermaerke and current riders Sean Quinn and Michael Garrison, Matthew Riccitello departed Lux Development Cycling Team to join Hagens Berman Axeon for the 2021 season.
“Since I started cycling, I have been impressed with the development of riders on Axel’s team,” said Matthew. “To me, this is an essential step towards my goal of becoming a successful pro tour rider. There is no doubt in my mind that Hagens Berman Axeon is the best team for me to grow as a rider and I am super excited and honored to be a part of the program this year. I am looking forward to training, racing, and learning from the team’s riders and staff.”
Another rider that experienced the vanishing of his 2020 season, the 18-year-old will rely on his strong 2019 experience to serve as the catalyst for this year. Matthew was 2nd at the 2019 Junior National Time Trial Championships, finishing just 33 seconds behind winner and current World Tour rider Quinn Simmons. Matthew won 3 stages at the 2019 Tour of the Gila, won the youth category at Tour de l’Abitibi, and was 2nd in the best young rider category at both Grand Prix Rüebliland and Tour du Pays de Vaud. He finished the year in 17th place at the 2019 Junior World Championships Road Race.
“I consider my strengths to be in climbing and time trialing,” said Matthew. “This year, I would like to continue growing as a bike racer, improving my skills, and working towards my goal of competing with the best stage racers in the world.”
