In the past, riders younger than 23 were considered to be future prospects and the term 'espoir', which means hope, defined the age bracket of developing riders. In the recent years, however, young riders have become a dominant force in professional cycling and a growing contingent is graduating from the junior ranks into the WorldTour.
The class of 2023 is following the trend, especially in the Women's WorldTour where at least six 18-year-olds have signed with teams. Two juniors have moved into the WorldTour, with American AJ August the youngest, signing to Ineos Grenadiers on a three-year contract. Briton Izzy Sharp will showcase her talents for three years with the women's Lidl-Trek team.
