Raúl García Pierna (2001, Tres Cantos), one of the most promising Spanish cyclists, is turning pro next season with Equipo Kern Pharma on a three-year deal. The rider from Madrid is the current Spanish National U23 ITT champion.
Son to former pro Félix García Casas, García Pierna steps up to Equipo Kern Pharma from its feeder team, Equipo Lizarte, on which he enrolled last winter after several years at Fundación Contador. As a junior rider, he already got several medals at European and World Championships on the track. On his first under23 season, already in the pink outfit, he quickly proved his talent with amazing displays of teamwork and two victories: the queen stage of Vuelta a Zamora and the aforementioned Spanish National Championships ITT U23.
“Everyone can look at Raúl’s performances and conclude he has a big potential,” says Juanjo Oroz, Team Manager at Equipo Lizarte and Equipo Kern Pharma. “But what we really like of him is his attitude. He is ambitious and courageous, yet always conducts himself with a smile. These are all very valuable assets on this sport.”
“It will be a pleasure to grow along with Raúl. We are always keen on supporting young, talented riders like him. Over the next three years we will set realistic yet challenging goals to enable him to develop his potential to its best extent.”
“When I joined Equipo Lizarte, I found myself on a very supportive environment,” says Raúl García Pierna. “I’ve felt at ease here, and that has been the main reason to commit with Equipo Kern Pharma. I like the idea of turning pro on this environment and on this team that, on its maiden season in the pro ranks, is already racing as if it was a long-time established squad.”
“My goal for the next three seasons is to learn the ropes of pro racing. I want to go step by step and do my best, working hard and enjoying cycling.” And what about the future? “Weill, if I may dream… I’d like to win a grand tour or a World Championship.”
