Emilio Rodríguez Signs with UAE Team Emirates
The young Mexican cyclist will join UAE Team Emirates Gen Z, the team's development squad, for the 2027 season, marking an important step in his career and bringing him closer to the highest level of international cycling.
Mexican cycling continues to make headlines. On October 12, UAE Team Emirates-XRG officially announced the signing of José Emilio “Choche” Rodríguez, 18, to its Gen Z development team for the 2027 season, a program dedicated to developing the future stars of professional cycling.
Originally from Colima, Mexico, and coming from A.R. M. Cycling Team, Rodríguez has built an impressive junior cycling career, competing across Europe and achieving notable results, including second place in the general classification of the GP West Bohemia and a runner-up finish at the Trofeo Emozione in Italy. He also represented Mexico at the 2026 UCI Road World Championships in Montreal.
His signing is particularly significant because he is following a path similar to that of Isaac del Toro, who also developed within the A.R. M. structure before joining UAE Team Emirates-XRG, where he has established himself as one of the leading figures in international cycling.
What Are DEVO Teams and Why Are They So Important?
In professional cycling, the term DEVO comes from Development Team, referring to squads specifically designed to identify, train, and develop young talent, helping riders transition toward the highest levels of the sport.
Today, several UCI WorldTour organizations operate development programs that serve as stepping stones for promising cyclists looking to turn professional.
These teams offer much more than a racing calendar. Riders gain access to specialized coaches, physical preparation, nutrition programs, performance analysis, advanced technology, and international racing experience. They also have the opportunity to gradually become familiar with the structure and demands of professional teams.
UAE Team Emirates Gen Z is one of these programs. Its mission is to prepare promising young riders who, through a structured development process, may eventually earn a place on UAE Team Emirates-XRG, home to cycling stars such as Tadej Pogačar and Isaac del Toro.
The program has already demonstrated its ability to develop riders for the WorldTour, with cyclists such as Adrià Pericas, Luca Giaimi, and Davide Stella progressing from the development structure to the main team.
However, joining a DEVO team does not guarantee a WorldTour contract. Riders must prove their progression, consistency, and ability to compete at the highest level.
A New Opportunity for Mexican Cycling
Emilio Rodríguez's arrival at UAE Team Emirates Gen Z represents an important milestone for the development of Mexican cycling. His signing confirms that Mexican talent continues to attract the attention of major international cycling organizations.
In 2027, Emilio will face the challenge of adapting to the Under-23 category, competing against stronger and more experienced riders, and continuing to demonstrate his potential within one of the most recognized organizations in world cycling.
His journey is only beginning, but his story demonstrates the opportunities that emerge when talent, preparation, and development programs come together.
At L’Étape México by Tour de France, we celebrate the achievements of Mexican cycling and reaffirm our commitment to promoting the passion for this sport, bringing the Tour de France experience closer to amateur cyclists across our country and inspiring new generations to pursue their dreams on two wheels.
