In a groundbreaking move for Eritrean cycling and the Movistar Team, 25-year-old Natnael Tesfatsion signed a two-year contract with the Spanish World Tour squad. This historic signing will open another great opportunity for the f Eritrean rider to bring a new level of diversity to one of cycling’s most storied teams.
Natnael Tesfatsion: A Rising Star from Eritrea
Born on May 23, 1999, in Asmara, Eritrea, Natnael Tesfatsion has quickly become one of the most promising talents in African cycling. Standing at 1.75 meters and weighing 60 kg, Tesfatsion possesses the ideal build for a climber, which has been evident in his performances over the past few years.
Tesfatsion’s journey to the World Tour has been nothing short of impressive. He first caught the cycling world’s attention during his time with the NTT Continental Cycling Team in 2020, where he showcased his climbing abilities and tactical understanding. His breakthrough came with two overall victories in the Tour du Rwanda (2020 and 2022), a race that has become a proving ground for African talent.
The young Eritrean’s potential was further confirmed during his stint with Drone Hopper – Androni Giocattoli in 2021 and 2022. It was during this period that Tesfatsion began to make waves in European racing, with notable results including a second-place finish in the Giro dell’Appennino and the general classification of the Adriatica Ionica Race in 2022.
Tesfatsion’s ascent to the World Tour came in 2023 when he joined Lidl-Trek (formerly Trek-Segafredo). In his two years with the team, he continued to develop and adapt to the highest level of professional cycling. His most notable result came early in the 2024 season with a second-place finish in the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, proving that he can compete with the world’s best in one-day races.
Movistar Team: A New Home for African Talent
The Movistar Team, managed by the experienced Eusebio Unzué, has a rich history dating back to 1980. Known for nurturing talent and competing at the highest level, Movistar has been home to cycling legends such as Miguel Indurain, Pedro Delgado, and Alejandro Valverde. The team has claimed 7 Tour de France overall victories and numerous stage wins across all three Grand Tours.
In recent years, Movistar has been working to rejuvenate its roster and adapt to the changing landscape of professional cycling. The signing of Natnael Tesfatsion is a clear indication of this strategy, as the team looks to tap into the vast potential of African cycling while also expanding its global appeal.
Eusebio Unzué, speaking about the signing, said, “Natnael represents the future of cycling. His signing is not just about bringing in a talented rider, but also about embracing the globalization of our sport. We believe he has the potential to achieve great things with Movistar, and we’re excited to support his development.”
## The Significance for Eritrean Cycling
Eritrea, despite its small size, has become a powerhouse in African cycling. The country’s high-altitude terrain and cycling culture have produced several professional riders, with Daniel Teklehaimanot being the first to compete in the Tour de France in 2015. Tesfatsion’s move to Movistar represents another significant milestone for Eritrean cycling.
For Eritrean cycling fans, this signing is a source of immense pride and excitement. Social media has been abuzz with congratulatory messages and expressions of support for Tesfatsion. The move to Movistar, one of the most recognizable teams in the sport, elevates the profile of Eritrean cycling on the world stage.
Samson Solomon, president of the Eritrean Cycling Federation, commented on the significance of the signing: “Natnael’s success is a testament to the strength of Eritrean cycling. His move to Movistar will inspire countless young riders in our country and across Africa. We believe this is just the beginning of great things to come for Eritrean cycling.”
What This Means for Tesfatsion’s Career
Joining Movistar presents Natnael Tesfatsion with new opportunities and challenges. The Spanish team’s experience in developing climbers and GC contenders could be instrumental in helping Tesfatsion reach his full potential.
Tesfatsion himself is excited about the move. In his own words: “I had the opportunity to know the team better in Australia this year as we both raced the Tour Down Under, and the feeling couldn’t be better. They’re a strong group of guys, really fun, and I’m really looking forward to bringing my effort to the team and continuing to improve results.”
The Eritrean champion sees himself as a strong rider for short climbs with a good sprint, attributes that could make him a valuable asset in hilly classics and stage races. His immediate goal is clear: “Hopefully I can get my first victory in the WorldTour next season – I was so close earlier this year when I finished 2nd at the Cadel Evans Road Race, so I hope I can return the confidence the Movistar Team is putting on me with some good results.”
The Road Ahead
As Tesfatsion prepares to join Movistar for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on his development and results. The team’s experience in Grand Tours could see Tesfatsion make his debut in races like the Giro d’Italia or the Vuelta a España, providing him with valuable experience in three-week races.
Moreover, Tesfatsion’s presence on the team could open doors for more African riders in the future. If he succeeds, it could encourage other WorldTour teams to look more closely at the talent emerging from Africa, particularly Eritrea.
For Movistar, this signing represents a new chapter in their long history. As they approach their 50th year in professional cycling, the addition of Tesfatsion symbolizes their commitment to embracing diversity and nurturing global talent.
Conclusion: A Win-Win Situation
The signing of Natnael Tesfatsion by the Movistar Team is a significant moment for all parties involved. For Tesfatsion, it’s an opportunity to compete at the highest level with a team known for developing climbing talent. For Movistar, it’s a chance to tap into the emerging market of African cycling and potentially uncover a future Grand Tour contender.
For Eritrean and African cycling fans, this move represents another step forward in the global recognition of their athletes. It’s a source of inspiration for young riders across the continent, showing that with talent and determination, the biggest teams in the world are within reach.
As the 2025 season approaches, cycling enthusiasts around the world will be eagerly watching Natnael Tesfatsion, hoping to see the Eritrean flag raised high on podiums across the World Tour calendar. The journey of this young talent from the roads of Asmara to the peaks of European cycling is just beginning, and it promises to be an exciting ride for all involved.