Alexey Vermeulen, a distinguished figure in the world of professional cycling, has forged a groundbreaking career-spanning alliance with ENVE, a prominent manufacturer of carbon composite components. This remarkable collaboration stands as a testament to enduring trust and shared vision within the dynamic landscape of gravel cycling, offering Vermeulen unparalleled stability and reinforcing ENVE's profound confidence in both the athlete and the sport's burgeoning potential.
The announcement, disseminated across various platforms, marks a significant milestone in a relationship that originated in 2021. Over the intervening years, both Vermeulen and ENVE have experienced considerable growth, establishing themselves as pivotal forces in the rapid evolution and professionalization of gravel racing. Their journey together has not only been one of shared success but also of mutual influence, as Vermeulen has played an instrumental role in shaping ENVE's product development and brand identity, while ENVE has provided the essential support for Vermeulen's ascendancy in the gravel scene.
Reflecting on this transformative partnership, Vermeulen articulated a profound sense of belonging and purpose. He shared, "From my earliest days, I envisioned professional cycling as a means to both challenge myself physically and inspire others. While my road racing career provided athletic rigor, it often lacked the sense of broader impact. That perspective shifted dramatically when ENVE approached me in 2021. Since then, I've found complete alignment with ENVE's core values, their commitment to innovation, and the exceptional individuals who define the brand. I truly feel at home, and this agreement ensures I can continue this journey until the culmination of my racing endeavors."
Hailing from Michigan, Vermeulen's early career showcased immense promise in road cycling, with a notable tenure in BMC's development program, followed by a coveted two-year WorldTour contract with LottoNL-Jumbo (now recognized as Visma–Lease a Bike). During this period, he competed on the most prestigious European stages, participating in Monuments and top-tier stage races, while also achieving commendable results at U.S. national championships. He embodied the archetypal professional cyclist's dream in his early twenties, yet the inherent pressures and rigid structures of the peloton gradually eroded his initial sense of purpose.
Upon the conclusion of his WorldTour contract, Vermeulen consciously chose a divergent path. Rather than pursuing another conventional team contract, he transitioned to an independent racing career, meticulously carving out a niche across gravel, mountain biking, and various alternative cycling disciplines. This strategic pivot proved to be a catalyst for profound change. As gravel cycling surged in popularity, Vermeulen distinguished himself as a consistently high-performing and highly visible athlete, becoming a perennial contender in the Life Time Grand Prix and a two-time overall runner-up. Through this journey, he cultivated a financially viable and creatively fulfilling privateer career, fundamentally redefining the parameters of success outside traditional team structures.
Beyond his racing achievements, Vermeulen has dedicated himself to athlete mentorship and to fostering the growth of the sport, particularly in establishing viable pathways for emerging American racers. This multifaceted engagement has been instrumental in solidifying the foundation for his enduring collaboration with ENVE. At 31 years old, Vermeulen continues to demonstrate exceptional form and ambition. This partnership with ENVE not only underscores their unwavering belief in his capabilities as an athlete but also signals a profound conviction in the long-term viability and growth of the gravel cycling discipline as a whole. This type of career-long commitment is a rare occurrence in professional cycling, particularly in the gravel sector, where athletes typically navigate short-term, season-by-season sponsorship agreements. Such landmark deals could herald a new era of enhanced stability within the gravel racing community.
Vermeulen's immediate focus now shifts back to competition. He is set to return to the Life Time Grand Prix in 2026, with his current calendar including an upcoming participation in Australia's RADL GRVL event. His pre-season schedule further includes appearances at the Valley of Tears and The Mid South in March, culminating in the commencement of the Life Time Grand Prix season on April 16 at the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, California.