Team USA Cyclists Shine at Pan Am Championships

American riders demonstrate depth and versatility across multiple disciplines

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The past month has showcased significant achievements for American cyclists across multiple disciplines, signaling exciting trends for the future of the sport. From dominant performances at the Pan American Championships to strong showings in European classics and domestic competitions, US riders are demonstrating increasing depth and versatility.

Why it matters

The success of American cyclists at the Pan Am Championships, European classics, and domestic events highlights the growing strength and potential of the US cycling program. This blend of experienced stars and emerging talent suggests a strong trajectory for the US team as they build towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The details

Team USA's 14-medal haul at the Pan American Track Cycling Championships in Santiago, Chile, showcases a resurgence in the program, with both established stars like Kristen Faulkner and young talents like 18-year-old Emma Jimenez Palos contributing to the success. On the road, Matteo Jorgenson and Luke Lamperti have made an impact in challenging European classics, while domestic events like La Primavera in Texas have provided a platform for elite and junior cyclists to shine.

  • The Pan American Track Cycling Championships took place in Santiago, Chile.
  • The Swamp Classic in Florida served as a stop on the Paracycling National Calendar.

The players

Kristen Faulkner

An experienced American cyclist who secured gold in both the Team and Individual Pursuit at the Pan American Track Cycling Championships.

Emma Jimenez Palos

An 18-year-old American cyclist who contributed to the gold-medal winning Team Pursuit at the Pan American Track Cycling Championships.

Matteo Jorgenson

An American cyclist who has consistently finished in the top five in challenging European classics, including a 4th place finish at the Faun-Ardèche Classic and a 2nd place finish at the Faun Drome Classic.

Luke Lamperti

An American cyclist who has recorded top-10 finishes at the Omloop Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne, demonstrating the competitiveness of American riders on the cobbled classics circuit.

Michael Stephens

An American para-cyclist who secured a gold medal at the Pan American Track Para Cycling Championships in Brazil.

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What’s next

With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, these recent results provide a positive outlook for American cycling. The combination of established stars, emerging talent, and innovative training approaches positions the US team for continued success. The focus on junior development and cross-disciplinary training will be crucial in maintaining this momentum.

The takeaway

The rise of American cyclists across multiple disciplines, from track cycling to road racing and para-cycling, signals an exciting future for the sport in the United States. The blend of experienced talent and promising young riders, coupled with a focus on cross-disciplinary training and junior development, suggests the US cycling program is well-positioned for continued success on the global stage.