American Kevin Vermaerke has signed a two-year contract with Emirates-XRG, the world’s number one squad. The rider hasn’t yet won a professional race, but finished third (twice) and most recently sixth in the Arctic Race of Norway. What does the new signing mean for the world’s best team, and what does it mean for Vermaerke?

Number one team  

UAE Team Emirates-XRG are undoubtedly the top team in the world right now. Their 2024 season was one of the most dominant in cycling history. True to form, UAE are having another extraordinary year in 2025 and closing in on more history. The team is always at the top of the odds at online sports betting UK sites and their recent results and continued historic performances – underpinned by consistency – will continue that trend, let alone with new, talented additions to the team.

They’ve already equalled their own record of 20 different riders winning a race. Pogačar, as to be expected after his historic 2024, has won the most races. Spaniard Juan Ayuso is among the favourites for the autumn events, including his home race Vuelta a España, and teammate João Almeida will be another to watch. 

CEO and team principal, Mauro Gianetti, said they were glad to welcome a versatile rider who had a proven track record at the highest level. Gianetti said Vermaerke would compete both in day races and stage races. 

Adding a rider like Vermaerke is an example of their strategy. UAE combines global stars with younger talents who can develop in the environment of the best squad. Like the most successful teams in any sport, they balance short-term results with long-term planning. When a leader fades or retires, there’s a rider ready to step up. 

Vermaerke isn’t a household name yet, but he fits the blueprint of a rider capable of big results under the right circumstances. The signing is another calculated step to make sure their reign at the top continues. 

Vermaerke’s career so far

Vermaerke will have a chance to learn from Tadej Pogačar at his new team. Pogačar won the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France in 2025. 

The rider has been with Team DSM for the last five seasons, since turning professional. He won the U23 version of Liège-Bastogne-Liège and raced for the US in the World Championships early in his career. Vermaerke said he had grown over the last few years and was expecting to reach a new level with the athletes around him and the attention to detail in the UAE team. 

In a 2021 interview, Vermaerke said his hero was Chris Froome, whose mentality Vermaerke admired. The young cyclist said that Liège-Bastogne-Liège was his best result to date and the race that brought him the most attention. 

He described himself as more of an all-rounder than a pure climber. He said that even when he’s unwinding, he’s focused on cycling. Vermaerke enjoys watching films and talking to friends back in the US. He was involved in one of the major crashes in the 2023 Tour de France; a spectator appeared to stick their arm out when the peloton was riding through a narrow part of road. 

The move will be more than just a change of jersey. At Team DSM, he was often tasked with supporting leaders and rarely had the freedom to chase his own opportunities. At UAE Team Emirates-XRG, he’ll initially serve as a key domestique. But the structure of the team and their broad race calendar could allow him to seek leadership roles in smaller stage races or week-long tours.

The new environment might allow him to transform his promise into breakthrough results. A rider who can finish in the top ten on general classification at races like the Tour de Pologne or the Tour de Suisse could gain more importance in the squad.

Image under the Unsplash License

article supplied

Thousands of supply chain staff and families facing weeks without pay urged to contact Ben’s bespoke helpline to access support.

The Motor and Allied Trades Benevolent Fund (Ben) is offering bespoke support to the thousands of people affected by the ongoing cyber attack at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR).

Since 1 September, JLR has experienced a cyber attack that has shut down production at its three manufacturing sites in the UK. The estimated number of people impacted is 120,000, including 50-75,000 supply chain workers, 30-40,000 family members, and 5-8,000 agency staff.

Ben has launched a bespoke campaign, offering practical and emotional support, guiding employers and workers to all the financial and mental health resources available to support those impacted by the cyber attack.

The UK Government has announced a £1.5 billion loan to support JLR and its supply chain restart operations. However, many people working in the sector have already acutely felt the effects of a month without work or payment.

Rachel Clift, CEO at Ben, said: "The impact of the cyber attack has already been deeply felt across the supplier workforce, and the need for support remains urgent. While the Government loan is a positive step towards recovery, we don’t yet know how quickly funds will reach suppliers who were forced to shut down production.

“For many, this means starting up again after almost a month without work – a challenge that brings its own financial and emotional pressures. Small and medium-sized suppliers in particular face significant hurdles: cashflow disruption, staff who may have gone weeks without pay, and the practical and emotional strain of restarting operations at pace. These difficulties risk leaving workers and families in very vulnerable positions.

“We want everyone affected to know that help is here and support is available. Whether it’s financial assistance, mental health support, or practical advice, we are committed to standing alongside the automotive community as it navigates this difficult period."

The pause in production at JLR has already had a significant impact on the UK economy, contributing to the rapid decline in productivity for the UK’s manufacturing sector.

Rachel Clift continues: "We know that it’s vital that production can start again swiftly. This will require a resilient workforce across JLR and its supply chain. We want to work alongside the UK Government and other key stakeholders to ensure that all the necessary support is in place for workers to restart production without barriers."

Anyone affected by the JLR cyber attack can access support from Ben by visiting www.ben.org.uk/cyber-attack, emailing [email protected], or calling Ben’s confidential helpline on 0808 131 1333.

The British Motor Museum will host the Great British Model Railway Show on Saturday 25 & Sunday 26 October supported by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Hornby and Bachmann. This dedicated weekend will feature over 40 model railways, representing all interests and scales, along with specialist traders selling scenic materials, accessories and complete trains sets.

This event is also one of the biggest model railway shows in the Midlands, run by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. The show includes 40 layouts of various scales, over 30 specialist traders, a modelling skill zone and family-friendly displays for all to enjoy. From modest-size shunting layouts, to titanic masterpieces in miniature, visitors can come along and be inspired! 

The show is a perfect event for families who are looking for a different and fun day out with the children. Not only can they enjoy looking at the layouts and model trains but they can also explore the Museum, home to over 400 historic British cars. What’s more, visitors can head to the Junction 12 Café for delicious hot meals, sweet treats and refreshments.

Tom Caren, Shows Manager at the British Motor Museum, said, “This family-friendly  show is hugely popular and enjoyed by so many. You can admire the range of models, browse the trade area to find that perfect train project, and speak to builders about their projects to get some handy tips and advice.”

Those visiting on Saturday 25 October can hop on the free bus service from Leamington Spa Railway Station to the British Motor Museum. Tickets are available for the show and Museum access, as well as just for the show. Advance tickets are discounted so it’s best to book online before the day of your visit.

For more information please call 01926 895300 or visit the website at www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/whats-on/great-british-model-railway-show