Unibet Rose Rockets to Develop Grand Tour Debut at the 2026 Giro d’Italia

The Unibet Rose Rockets, a team built on a content-driven vision of cycling, will participate in the 2026 Giro d’Italia after being awarded a wildcard entry by organizers RCS Sport. This opportunity comes after a disappointing decision by the Tour de France organizers to exclude the team from the 2026 Grande Boucle [1].

From YouTube Project to Grand Tour Contenders

Founded by Bas Tietema as a YouTube project, the Unibet Rose Rockets have quickly gained popularity for their fan-focused and social media-friendly approach to professional cycling. The team aims to connect new audiences to the sport through high-quality content alongside competitive racing [1].

Strong Roster for the Corsa Rosa

The team boasts a strong roster of experienced riders, including Dylan Groenewegen, Wout Poels, and Victor Lafay, who are expected to be competitive in the 2026 Giro d’Italia [1], [2]. Tietema has expressed the team’s ambition to win a stage, with a particular focus on the opening sprint stage and the possibility of securing the pink jersey [1].

Giro d’Italia Goals: Racing and Engagement

The Unibet Rose Rockets have outlined two primary goals for their debut Grand Tour: aggressive racing and the creation of high-quality content to engage new fans [1]. Tietema emphasized the team’s commitment to being visible, riding offensively, and making a significant impact throughout the race [1].

Wildcard Selection and Other Invitees

Alongside the Unibet Rose Rockets, Italian teams Bardiani CSF and Polti-VisitMalta were too granted wildcards for the 2026 Giro d’Italia [1]. The Giro d’Italia will begin on May 8th in Bulgaria and conclude on May 31st in Rome [2].

Continued Momentum for the Rockets

This Giro d’Italia invitation marks a high point for the Unibet Rose Rockets, following a string of recent wildcard call-ups to other races, including Strade Bianche, Milan-San Remo, the Tour of Flanders, and Paris-Roubaix [1]. The team has already secured one victory in 2026, with Dylan Groenewegen taking a win [3].