The MOG Squad: ENVE + PEARL iZUMi Empowering Gravel's Rising Generation
We’re proud to announce the MOG Squad, an international development team dedicated to transforming promising young riders into the sport's next elite athletes.
Featuring an eight-rider roster—four women and four men—from the U.S., Netherlands, and Ireland, the MOG Squad is ready to take on some of the most prestigious gravel events with full ENVE backing and strong industry support. Co-title sponsor PEARL iZUMi joins a stacked partner lineup including Shimano, First Endurance, Wolf Tooth Components, SMITH, Orange Seal, and Stages Cycling.
What sets the MOG Squad apart? Elite mentorship from veterans Alexey Vermeulen and Lauren Stephens, whose combined racing experience and athlete growth will provide a pivotal resource to these young athletes.
"The MOG Squad isn't just about racing—it's about creating real pathways in gravel, a sport exploding with opportunity but short on structured development," said Matt Shriver, Sports Marketing Manager at ENVE. Building on the success of the 2024 ENVE x Alexey Vermeulen Phase II program (which proved the demand for targeted support), this expanded program delivers access to industry leading equipment, event logistics, mentoring, and a clear pipeline toward pro-level success.
Alexey Vermeulen reflected: “My BMC Development Team days as a U23 shaped who I am today. Phase II showed us exactly what young gravel riders need to thrive, and how to build a real U.S. pro pathway that didn’t exist for me growing up. Watching the MOG Squad launch feels like passing the torch. I can’t wait to help these athletes chase joy, growth, and big results.”
The squad makes its debut this weekend at Valley of Tears in Turkey, Texas, following a pre-race team camp. From there, they’ll chase race experience at some of the biggest events, including:
Life Time Grand Prix races: Sea Otter Classic, Unbound Gravel, Big Sugar
The Traka (Girona)
ENVE GRODEO
Gabe Rivera, Sports Marketing Manager at PEARL iZUMi, added: “This partnership feels inevitable. ENVE’s relentless innovation and focus on athlete development mirrors our own values. By creating a platform for young talent to chase ambitions through the LTGP pathway, while staying true to gravel’s spirit of adventure and community, we’re helping grow the next generation of riders who love the ride as much as the race.”
Meet the 2026 MOG Squad
Sofia Waite (USA)
Minke Bakker (NED)
Alexander Charles (USA)
Allison Edgar (USA)
Wiley Close (USA)
Kash Steele (USA)
Jason Freihofer (USA)
Alexis Roche (IRL)
Team Partners PEARL iZUMi (Co-Title Sponsor) • Shimano • First Endurance • Wolf Tooth Components • SMITH • Orange Seal • Stages Cycling
Follow the team on Instagram at @mogsquad #MOGSquad
