Maddie Le Roux South Africa

Maddie Le Roux claimed victory in the 2023 Zwift Academy, marking the eighth year of the illustrious talent identification program. Out of more than 108,000 participants, the South African standout impressed with her exceptional power numbers and extensive race experience, seizing the ultimate prize of a professional contract with CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto Generation.

With a background in triathlon and a university degree in teaching, Maddie spent the three years leading up to her Zwift Academy victory fully committed to cycling. She concentrated on honing her capabilities across all aspects of the sport, first in South Africa and later with the UCI World Cycling Centre team, working towards the ultimate goal of breaking into the professional ranks.

After finally achieving her long-held dream through the Zwift Academy, Maddie’s exciting 2024 season was overshadowed by heartbreak as she navigated the emotional weight of personal loss.

“I’m particularly proud of my first race with the team, GP de Pontevedra. It was my first European race in more than six months and just over two weeks after my mom’s passing. I didn’t know what to expect from myself or how racing with these new teammates would be. But I showed myself that no matter what else is going on, cycling and riding my bike is my happy place and what I’m meant to do.”

Frustratingly, Maddie’s season came to an abrupt end in July due to a broken collarbone, but the setback has only deepened her resolve.

“I hope to continue next season where I left off. I know I have the power; it’s just learning how and when to use it correctly to make it count.”

Despite her challenging year, Maddie credits her time with the team as invaluable for her growth, opening her eyes to how a professional set-up functions both on and off the bike. From improving efficiency to enhancing communication, her first season was packed with key lessons that she is eager to build on in the future.

“Quite a lot of valuable “bricks” have been put into place that I hope I can build on going into this next season. I fully trust this team to help me become the best rider I can be.”

Maddie is back in action early in 2025, with her eyes firmly set on winning the South African National Championships at the end of January.

Palmares

Winner 2023 Zwift Academy
3rd place, GP Cidade de Pontevedra

2nd place, GP Excelsior Berra Immobilier
2nd place, GP Crevoisier
9th place, Alpes Gresivaudan Classic

Winner, Trofeu Ajuntament d’Ondara
3rd place, Groupe e critérium de Bulle

2025

CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto Generation is the development team of the World Tour team and a key component of CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto’s long-term diversity and inclusion program. As the first World Tour team to establish a formal pathway to the Women’s World Tour, this innovative two-tier structure is setting the standard for future talent development. Now in its third year, the team is dedicated to helping talented female athletes from diverse backgrounds break new ground, reach the pinnacle of professional cycling, and shape the future of the sport. The roster of CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto Generation brings together eight ambitious riders from seven countries, united by their shared drive for success.

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Maddie Le Roux South Africa

Palmares

2024

2023

2022

2025

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