Two new pregnancies in the women's peloton: 'Prime example of how structure and support for female athletes should be'

Wiel and her partner announced the happy news on social media last weekend. Earlier this year, Elise Chabbey of FDJ-Suez also took a break because she is expecting a baby. On Sunday, Wiel shared a photo of the FDJ-Suez team in Salzburg.

Australian cyclist Brodie Chapman is also expecting a baby. Chapman was announced on Monday as a new addition to Liv AlUla Jayco, where she will ride after several years with UAE.

“The move to Liv AlUla Jayco feels like the perfect choice for me. When I was approached earlier this year, I wasn’t actively looking to switch teams, but the vision Gene Bates outlined was incredibly encouraging and gave me a lot of confidence.”

"The team offered me stability and unparalleled support for my time trial ambitions, as well as the opportunity to become the kind of rider I want to be in my final years as a professional. "When I told the management at GreenEDGE Cycling that I was pregnant, I was met with genuine joy and support," said Chapman.

"The team's response is a prime example of how the structure and support for female professional athletes should be. I have no doubt that motherhood will only strengthen my strength and ambition," says the Australian.

"Throughout my career, I've worked with many of the staff members and riders through the national team. It's truly wonderful to finally be able to work with them full-time toward important goals. I’m also looking forward to racing alongside younger talent, particularly Australian riders, with whom I hope to share my experiences about how I’ve built not only a career but also a fulfilling life abroad while pursuing big goals.”

"I'm also looking forward to racing alongside younger talents, especially Australian riders, with whom I hope to share my experiences about building not only a career but also a fulfilling life abroad while pursuing big goals. I expect that their ambition and energy will also help me reach my full potential! I love being part of a team that’s still developing, and GreenEDGE has a promising future ahead of it.”