A New Chapter for Trek's XC Team: Saying Farewell to Rising Stars
In a recent announcement, Trek's factory XC team has bid farewell to two exceptional young talents, Madigan Munro and Gunnar Holmgren, as they prepare for the 2026 season. This news comes as part of a larger departure from Trek's cycling race teams, leaving many fans curious about the future of these athletes.
Madigan Munro, a five-year veteran of Trek, has made remarkable progress in her cycling career. Her journey began at just 18 years old, racing both XC and cyclocross. This year, Munro achieved an impressive feat by securing top 20 finishes during her first elite race season, a testament to her hard work and dedication.
Gunnar Holmgren, a more recent addition to the team, joined Trek late last year and quickly made his mark. By the end of the 2025 season, he had secured a 26th-place finish in the elite men's XCO race in Lake Placid, showcasing his potential and leaving a positive impression on everyone he encountered.
But here's where it gets controversial... Trek has also announced the return of Vlad Dascalu, who has completed a 17-month suspension for anti-doping violations. While some may question this decision, Trek stands by its support for Dascalu as he prepares for a full slate of World Cup races in 2026.
And this is the part most people miss... Munro and Holmgren's departure doesn't just mean a change in team dynamics; it's a shift in the cycling community. Both athletes have made lasting friendships and connections, and their impact will be felt long after they've left Trek.
Munro reflects on her time with Trek, saying, "This journey has propelled my professional career and shaped me as both an athlete and a person. I'm grateful for the opportunities and the friends I've made along the way."
Holmgren adds, "I'll miss my teammates and the support from everyone at the factory. It's been an incredible experience, and I'm excited to see what the future holds."
As we bid farewell to Munro and Holmgren, we can't help but wonder where their paths will take them next. Will they continue to dominate the XC scene? Only time will tell.
Trek's XC team is evolving, and while we don't know the full story yet, one thing is certain: the cycling world is about to get even more exciting. Stay tuned for more updates as we learn about the future of these talented athletes.
What do you think about these changes? Do you agree with Trek's decisions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
