Benjamin Noval (17) already compared to Paul Seixas: “He might be even better”

The surname Noval is no coincidence. Benjamin is the son of former professional rider Benjamín Noval, who served as a trusted domestique to Alberto Contador between 2007 and 2013. And it appears that the cycling DNA has been passed on in full.

At just 17 years old, Noval is already regarded as one of the biggest talents of his generation. He has impressed in major junior races, but what truly sets him apart is his ability to excel across multiple disciplines. Noval does not limit himself to road racing alone. He also competes in mountain biking and cyclo-cross — and at an exceptionally high level. In all three disciplines, he is among the very best riders in the world for his age group.

That rare combination of versatility and raw talent has made Noval one of the most sought-after juniors in the sport. Several top teams were keen to secure his future, but it was ultimately INEOS Grenadiers who won the race for his signature.

But he has already had a taste of the future. He was present at the training camp. “It was an incredible experience,” he tells Marca. “It was very important to get to know the team with a view to next year. I think it helped me in the races I rode afterwards; it gave me a boost.”

He will soon be thrown in at the deep end. “Initially, as agreed, I will be registered with the first team,” he explains to AS. “I think it's important to get used to the competition, find a good rhythm, and lay a solid foundation, which is what we've been working on in recent years. Next year will be challenging, different, and full of new experiences.”

Which discipline does the Spaniard prefer? “I'm better at road cycling; you don't have to take as many corners and it's less about pure strength.” He considers cyclocross to be his “worst” discipline. ‘I still have a lot to improve, especially technically, but I think the effort is the same as on the road, and my body is the same, so now it's about improving over the next few years.’

Noval became Spanish junior cyclo-cross champion this year and finished on the podium twice in major races in his age category. But he may well decide to give up cyclo-cross altogether. “Maybe next year I'll have to sacrifice some cyclo-cross to build up my rhythm and endurance for road cycling and long distances. But a race or two is always good and useful.”

Everything is focused on success on the road. The 17-year-old top talent already knows which races he hopes to shine in. The Grand Tours are a goal, and he hopes to stand on the top step of the podium one day. ‘That would be more than amazing. These are huge goals, and at the moment I see them as practically impossible, but I have to keep working and think about them every morning to stay motivated.’

Although he describes Mathieu van der Poel as “unique,” the world cyclo-cross champion is not his idol. That honor goes to Contador, whom he knows well through his father. “I know almost all of his races and I definitely consider him a role model. I hope I can climb as well as he does, or even a little faster.” One thing is certain: Contador was not as good as Noval junior when he was 17.