Starting from the 2026 season, UAE Team ADQ will welcome another highly talented and experienced rider to its roster.
Dutch cyclist Pauliena Rooijakkers, 32, has signed a two-year contract (2026–2027) with the Emirati team.
Originally from Schijndel, the Netherlands, Rooijakkers discovered her love for cycling through her passion for pushing beyond limits – especially on the climbs. “That feeling of effort and freedom on the bike really sparked my passion from a young age,” she told us.
Now regarded as one of the most respected climbers in the peloton, Rooijakkers boasts an impressive career. Her palmarès includes two professional victories, but the highlight is undoubtedly her third place overall at the 2024 Tour de France Femmes. She also takes pride in having achieved top-10 finishes in all Grand Tours.
Coming from Fenix-Deceuninck, Rooijakkers explained her decision to join UAE Team ADQ: “UAE Team ADQ has shown a very professional structure and clear ambitions, with strong leaders like Elisa Longo Borghini and a constant focus on winning. The team’s vision, the way they work, and their attention to detail convinced me that this was the right place to continue my career.”
It’s a significant step in her professional journey: “It means I can use my experience to support our leaders in the most important races. Being part of a project with such strong ambitions is truly motivating for me. I’m eager to race with the team for victories in the Grand Tours.”
Looking ahead, the Dutch rider – fresh from competing in the recent World and European Road Championships – shared her goals: “I’m mainly a climber and a stage race rider. I see myself as a hardworking support rider for the team, but also as someone who can show her strengths, especially in the mountains. My main goal for the new season is to be there for my teammates in the biggest races, like the Giro and the Tour. I want to really make a difference in the climbs and help the team win. Of course, I also aim to stay consistent and achieve strong personal performances, but the team’s success always comes first.”
Melissa Moncada, President of UAE Team ADQ, commented: “We truly value Pauliena Rooijakkers’ qualities – she’s a strong, dedicated, and experienced rider with a great team spirit. We’re confident that her arrival will bring even more balance, stability, and experience to our group, which will also be very important for our younger riders.”
(ph. Getty Sport)
