In July 2024, Joe Howcroft, a promising young talent from Leeds, took a significant leap in his cycling career by joining X-Speed United. Without missing a beat, he jumped into an intense racing calendar, immediately testing himself at a higher level. Joe’s first taste of the UCI scene included challenging races like the Sibiu Cycling Tour in Romania, the Kreiz Breizh Elites, the 1.1 La Polynormande in France, and the Tour of South Bohemia in Czechia.
Riding with the Otley Cycling Club back in Leeds, Joe honed his skills and found his rhythm on the road. However, it was at the Kreiz Breizh Elites where he truly found his stride, embracing the challenge of competing against some of Europe’s toughest riders. For English cyclists like Joe, advancing their careers often means looking beyond the UK, where UCI races and Continental teams are few and far between.
Now, Joe has made a new home in the cycling paradise of Girona, Spain. Here, he’s immersing himself in the vibrant culture, taking advantage of the region’s mild climate and legendary climbs in the Pyrenees. Surrounded by a community of ex-pat pros who also call Girona home, Joe is relishing the opportunity to train in an environment rich in cycling tradition.
As we gear up for the 2025 season, we’re excited to see how Joe’s grit, determination, and team spirit will contribute to X-Speed United. With his passion and adaptability, there’s no doubt he’ll make a strong impact on the road.
Welcome back, Joe! We can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve in the year ahead.
With over two decades of involvement in Spain’s vibrant sports scene, Douglas has become a dedicated sports coach and manager. Originally from Harrisburg, PA, he now calls Madrid home, where his interest in sports business, marketing, and sponsorship activation has thrived. In 2021, he earned an MBA from Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, dedicating his thesis to the creation and management of a professional cycling team.