Patxi Villa and Shane Archbold became sporting directors at Bora-Hansgrohe

Villa returns to his old position with the German national team after four years spent with Movistar

Bora Hansgrohe confirmed the signing of Primoz Roglic by announcing the arrival of two new sporting directors, New Zealander Shane Archbold and Basque player Patx Vela.

Archbold has ridden for the Bora-Hansgrohe team for the past two seasons and is expected to retire at the end of the year.

The former pro Vela served as sporting director at Tinkoff-Saxo and Bora, before taking on the role of performance director at Spanish WorldTour team Movistar between 2020 and the current season. The Basque now returns to his previous position in Bora-Hansgrohe.

Movistar confirmed Vela’s departure from the team via X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday, but did not specify who would replace him.

A former national champion, respected team member and leading man, Archbold’s new role is to look after the younger riders on the team, a press release said. The 34-year-old must finish his final season at the Guangxi Tour, which starts on Thursday, before putting his wheels back on.

“It will be exciting to work with the new professionals in the team,” said Archbold. “This way I can transfer my experience and knowledge to the future of BORA – hansgrohe.” I will work with the players to get the best out of them. »

Villa (48 years old) seemed equally excited to return to the team where he spent three years, from 2017 to 2019, as sporting director.

“It’s like coming home. I’m excited for the 2024 season, which I hope will be successful for Bora Hansgrohe. Especially thanks to the big step taken by the team, we will be able to fight for the biggest victory in the world. »

Rolf Aldag, Head of the Team’s Sports Department, emphasized: “As a rider, Shane always had an opinion and stuck to it. Shane is very professional and has a very in-depth knowledge of strategies. From DS’ point of view, we are happy that he is now taking a step forward and giving young drivers the opportunity to benefit from his experience!””

“Patxi brings with him a wealth of experience. He takes a very analytical approach to modern cycling and basically knows every bike race like the back of his hand. The fact that he has already worked within the team and its structures is a plus.” – As is Shane. This makes leaving and coming back a no-brainer. Very easy.”