Lauren Stephens, a two-time US gravel national champion, has shifted from racing with UCI teams to create a multi-discipline team called Aegis Cycling Foundation. With a slew of victories including the Pan American road race championship and top finishes at major gravel events, she emphasizes developing women riders. The team, upgraded to USA Cycling Domestic Elite, will be rebranded as Next Step Racing in 2026 to expand its roster and missions. Stephens' initiative aims to provide opportunities for young female cyclists, blending competitive success with mentorship efforts.
In the last 18 months, Lauren Stephens, a two-time US gravel national champion, has transitioned from racing with UCI teams to launching her own multi-discipline team, the Aegis Cycling Foundation.
Stephens' competitive achievements include multiple titles across various events, such as the Pan American road race championship and back-to-back wins at the Tour of the Gila, along with excelling in gravel races.
The new team, set to be rebranded as Next Step Racing in 2026, aims to support and develop women riders by helping them progress in their racing careers.
Despite financial challenges in forming the team, Stephens successfully managed to build momentum through collaborative team efforts, contributing to both racing successes and mentorship for emerging riders.
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