Movistar Adds Blasi as Reusser Plans Retirement
Rising cyclist Paula Blasi joins Movistar for 2027, the same year Marlen Reusser expects to conclude her racing career.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Cycling
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Professional cyclist Marlen Reusser intends to retire following the conclusion of her current contract at the end of 2027. Meanwhile, rising star Paula Blasi will join the Movistar team starting in 2027 to bolster their grand tour general classification prospects.
Why it matters
At age 35, Reusser is planning her exit from the sport, prompting team changes as Movistar shifts focus toward younger talent. This transition highlights the tactical adjustments professional cycling teams make when preparing for major events like the Tour de France Femmes.
This transition follows the 2026 racing season, where Blasi secured wins at the La Vuelta Femenina and Amstel Gold Race compared to Reusser's 14th place finish at the Tour de France Femmes. Team recruitment strategies for 2027 remain focused on bolstering grand tour contention.
The players
Marlen Reusser
A 35-year-old professional cyclist currently under contract with Movistar.
Paula Blasi
A competitive cyclist who secured wins at the 2026 La Vuelta Femenina and Amstel Gold Race.
Movistar
A professional cycling team that competes in international grand tours and classics.
The details
Teams like Movistar utilize specific tactical planning on hilly terrain to manage general classification standings. By recruiting riders like Blasi, teams aim to navigate technical stages, including the Ardennes-like segments and team time trials scheduled for future Tour de France Femmes routes. These efforts are designed to optimize rider placement during high-stakes climbing segments.
Timeline
2023: Tour de France concludes at the Puy de Dôme climb.
2026: Paula Blasi completes her breakthrough racing season.
2027: Paula Blasi joins the Movistar team.
End of 2027: Marlen Reusser's current contract expires.
Health Landscape
Professional cycling teams are continuously refining their rosters to match the evolving technical requirements of the Tour de France Femmes. This cycle of athlete retirement and recruitment underscores the strategic push to remain competitive in international grand tours.
For cycling enthusiasts and amateur riders, following the performance recovery and training regimens of elite athletes offers insights into long-term physical conditioning. Maintaining regular physical activity remains a key component of cardiovascular health regardless of competitive status.
The takeaway
The transition of elite athletes reflects the rigorous demands of sustained professional competition. Fans and amateur cyclists should prioritize consistent, low-impact cross-training to support joint health and endurance as they manage their own fitness goals over time.
What happens next
Marlen Reusser is scheduled to participate in the 2027 Tour de France Femmes.
Further reading
For more on how team dynamics influence elite performance, see our Cycling section.
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