The Unforeseen Collapse and a Racer's Difficult Choice: Matej Mohoric Reflects on Leaving Early UAE for Bahrain
Imagine building a career, only to see your team's future crumble overnight. That's the stark reality cyclist Matej Mohoric faced in 2016. While he's now renowned as a daring attacker and a master descender, capable of snatching victories from unexpected angles, back then he was a rising talent with just one major junior title to his name. The rug was pulled out from under him when his team, Lampre-Merida, teetered on the brink of collapse due to a last-minute sponsor withdrawal.
"The sponsorship ended by contract at the end of 2016. And they decided not to extend," Mohoric explained on the Domestique Hotseat podcast. He clarified that he doesn't hold Lampre responsible for the chaotic situation that unfolded.
But here's where it gets a little tense... Initially, things seemed to be on solid ground. "Almost everything was already in place for the team to be backed by a Chinese company… then things went south," Mohoric recalled. The team's training bikes were already painted orange, a visual testament to the perceived certainty of the deal. "It was quite a shock to realize that there was now nothing," he added, highlighting the abrupt shift from anticipation to uncertainty.
The Savior Emerges: Mauro Giannetti and the UAE Rescue
Just as despair began to set in, Mauro Giannetti stepped in with a bold plan to salvage the team's project by securing a new partner from the Middle East. This was a pioneering move at the time, as the Bahraini cycling project was also in its nascent stages during that same off-season. It was this intervention, facilitated by UAE, that allowed the team to continue into 2017 with their plans largely intact, effectively saving numerous professional careers.
"It was a little bit hectic from the start because it all happened so fast," Mohoric admitted. "But we had a good roster, good riders because the Chinese sponsor had a solid budget. We just changed the jersey and started racing. We had a pretty good season, all things considered." And what a season it was! 2017 marked Mohoric's first major professional triumph, a spectacular stage win at the Vuelta a Espana, achieved through his signature aggressive downhill tactics.
And this is the part most people miss... Despite the turbulent beginnings, the early years of the team that would eventually become UAE Team Emirates didn't necessarily foreshadow its future dominance. "It was probably not the most organised team there was that year. Some other teams were years ahead… Team Sky was winning everything almost," Mohoric observed. He then shared a quote from Gianetti: "Mauro was always saying that he and the sponsor were striving to be the best team in the world, taking baby steps. Now they have the biggest budget and the best riders in the world."
A Predetermined Path: The Allure of Bahrain
However, even as the UAE project was finding its footing, Mohoric's gaze was already fixed on another Middle Eastern powerhouse: the burgeoning Bahrain Merida project. With Milan Erzen, a close confidant and mentor, at the helm, Mohoric had already, back in 2016, envisioned his future with Bahrain, despite being under contract with UAE until 2017.
"During that uncertainty, Milan Erzen was already planning this project. He’s very close to me, almost like my second father. He knew me since a young age and helped me get into pro cycling. It was logical for me to join," Mohoric explained. He and Erzen had an understanding to secure a spot for him, not for the initial year due to his existing contract, but for the following one.
Despite some internal reservations, Mohoric had a pivotal season with UAE, who even offered him a contract extension. Yet, his heart was already set on Bahrain. "There was not an option for me to stay, even though I was offered a contract. I actually felt really sorry that I had to refuse that offer, but I was looking forward to the future with Bahrain. If I had to go back, I would do the same again. I’m not regretting my choice."
Now, let's open this up for discussion: Mohoric expresses no regret about his decision to leave UAE for Bahrain, even though he felt bad about refusing a contract extension. Do you think it's always best to follow your long-term vision, even if it means turning down immediate opportunities? Or should riders prioritize stability and loyalty to a team that has supported them through difficult times? Share your thoughts below!
