grayejournal.com

EF Pro Cycling is once again making headlines with its unconventional approach to race attire, unveiling a striking new alien-themed kit for both its men's and women's teams participating in the upcoming Giro d'Italia. This departure from their usual pink jerseys is a deliberate move to avoid a color clash with the Giro's leader's jersey, a tradition the team has embraced with increasing creativity over the years. The new 'Ride in Peace' design, crafted by Swiss apparel brand Assos, signifies a bold statement in the world of professional cycling, aiming to merge innovative performance with a distinctive team identity.

The ‘Ride in Peace’ kit, set to debut with the men’s race on May 8th, is a product of Assos, who recently took over as the official apparel supplier for EF Pro Cycling. Assos is continuing a legacy of bold and artistic kit designs previously established by Rapha, the team's former outfitter. The press release from Assos describes the kit as a “signal from beyond,” blending celestial themes with terrestrial cycling. It’s an imaginative narrative that intends to transcend conventional boundaries of professional sports clothing. The design features a prominent alien head, along with whimsical elements such as crop-circle-like patterns and an upside-down cow, further emphasizing its otherworldly inspiration. This creative choice reflects a philosophy that values both exceptional performance and unique self-expression within the sport.

Edwin Navez, the CEO of Assos, articulated the brand's vision, stating that true innovation arises from challenging established norms, not only in product functionality but also in aesthetic representation. He emphasized that performance and identity are intrinsically linked, a perspective that guides the design of such distinctive kits. This isn't the first time EF Pro Cycling has captured attention with their race outfits. In 2020, their collaboration with Rapha and skateboard brand Palace resulted in a kit featuring a cartoon duck, which, despite incurring a fine from the UCI for non-compliance, quickly became a highly sought-after collector's item, selling out almost immediately. Subsequent years saw the team experimenting with various designs, including predominantly black jerseys, patchwork patterns for sustainability, and white jerseys adorned with diamond motifs, each reflecting a distinct narrative or purpose.

The men's Giro d'Italia will commence in Bulgaria on May 8th and conclude on May 31st, followed by the nine-stage women’s race from May 31st to June 7th. Fans eager to acquire the alien-themed kit can purchase it through Assos’s official website as part of a limited release. Other teams are also introducing new looks for the Italian Grand Tour; Soudal Quick-Step will honor its kit supplier Castelli’s 150th anniversary with a vintage cream jersey, while Ineos Grenadiers, rebranded as Netcompany-Ineos, will unveil a new grey kit, marking a fresh chapter for the team.