ENVE Composites is investing in the future of gravel racing with the launch of the MOG Squad, an international development team. Organised by ENVE, the team program is designed to support promising young riders as they transition into elite level competition.
The squad features an eight-rider roster – consisting of four women and four men – with athletes hailing from the USA, Netherlands, and Ireland. The team is supported by co-title sponsor PEARL iZUMi, alongside a partner lineup including Shimano, First Endurance, Wolf Tooth Components, SMITH, Orange Seal, and Stages Cycling.
Based in Ogden, UT, ENVE is a manufacturer of carbon fibre bicycles, wheels and components. It has designed the MOG Squad to provide elite mentorship from veterans Alexey Vermeulen and Lauren Stephens. These experienced athletes will provide a resource for the younger riders as they navigate the growing gravel racing scene.
Matt Shriver, Sports Marketing Manager at ENVE, said “The MOG Squad isn’t just about racing – it’s about creating real pathways in gravel, a sport exploding with opportunity but short on structured development.”
The initiative builds on the 2024 ENVE x Alexey Vermeulen Phase II program. According to the company, the expanded 2026 program delivers access to equipment, event logistics, and mentoring to create a pipeline toward professional success.
Alexey Vermeulen said “My BMC Development Team days as a U23 shaped who I am today. Phase II showed us exactly what young gravel riders need to thrive, and how to build a real US pro pathway that didn’t exist for me growing up. Watching the MOG Squad launch feels like passing the torch. I can’t wait to help these athletes chase joy, growth, and big results.”
The squad makes its debut this month at Valley of Tears in Turkey, TX, following a pre-race team camp. The 2026 season schedule includes various international and domestic events such as:
- Life Time Grand Prix races: Sea Otter Classic, UNBOUND Gravel, Big Sugar
- The Traka (Girona)
Gabe Rivera, Sports Marketing Manager at PEARL iZUMi, said “This partnership feels inevitable. ENVE’s relentless innovation and focus on athlete development mirrors our own values. By creating a platform for young talent to chase ambitions through the LTGP pathway, while staying true to gravel’s spirit of adventure and community, we’re helping grow the next generation of riders who love the ride as much as the race.”
The 2026 MOG Squad roster includes:
- Sofia Waite (USA)
- Minke Bakker (NED)
- Alexander Charles (USA)
- Allison Edgar (USA)
- Wiley Close (USA)
- Kash Steele (USA)
- Jason Freihofner (USA)
- Alexis Roche (IRL)
The team is equipped with ENVE wheels and components, and the MOG gravel frame.
www.enve.com
www.pearlizumi.com
