Thomas Harel, a young Mauritian cyclist, is set to join the Orihuela Cycling Team in 2027, marking a significant step in his career. The 2008-born athlete will be part of a Spanish team led by Manuel Mateo, with a planned racing calendar that he hopes will help him achieve a successful season. Harel's primary goal is to balance his cycling career with studying international relations at the Universidad Católica de Murcia.
Harel's move to Orihuela comes after a difficult 2026 season, which was impacted by a health issue that weakened his physical condition. Despite this setback, he remains optimistic about the upcoming season, stating that he is approaching 2027 with renewed energy and motivation. The young cyclist had previously competed with the Faucon Flacq SC-KFC and had shown promise, winning the national champion title in his second year in the U17 category.
The Mauritian cyclist's progression in the sport began at the age of 15, when he was introduced to cycling by friends Adrien Toulet and Tristan Hardy. His early years were marked by rapid progress, with support from the Fédération mauricienne de cyclisme (FMC), allowing him to compete against top-level opponents in Europe and Africa. Harel participated in notable events, including the Trophée Madiot in France and various national competitions during his junior years.
Harel describes himself as an offensive rider who prefers to take the initiative and create opportunities rather than waiting for others to make a move. He cites Julian Alaphilippe, a French cyclist, as his idol, admiring his audacity and instinct on the bike. This approach to cycling resonates with Harel, who believes that taking risks and trying to make a difference is what makes the sport authentic and exciting.
As Harel joins the Orihuela Cycling Team, he acknowledges the importance of prioritizing the team's goals while also aiming to achieve his individual objectives. His primary target for 2027 is the Championnats de Maurice, where he hopes to compete for the national title. Having already experienced the thrill of winning a national championship, Harel is eager to replicate this success.
Harel's new team will provide him with a structured racing calendar, which he believes will help him make the most of his abilities. He is looking forward to this new chapter in his sporting career, with a focus on contributing to the team's success while also pursuing his personal goals. The young Mauritian cyclist is confident that this move will enable him to grow as a rider and make a positive impact.
With his new team and a renewed sense of purpose, Thomas Harel is poised to make a strong impression in the 2027 season. As he embarks on this new journey, he will be balancing his cycling commitments with his studies, taking advantage of his status as a high-level athlete to manage his academic and sporting responsibilities effectively.
Key points
- Thomas Harel joins Orihuela Cycling Team for 2027 season, aiming to regain form after a challenging 2026.
