'I know there were other riders owed money… a lot of it' – the collapse of Hess Cycling reportedly left suppliers, staff and riders out of pocket

The collapse of Hess Cycling, a British women's professional cycling team, reportedly left riders, suppliers, and business partners in financial distress. According to the BBC, the team's collapse resulted in a £50,000 unpaid debt to one supplier. Cycling Weekly previously reported on Hess Cycling's demise, which occurred amidst financial pressures and a fraud investigation involving the team's owner, Rolf Hess.

The team initially aimed to become Britain's first Women's WorldTour team, with a €5 million budget, although their first-year budget was only €750,000 and they had no sponsors. The team faced challenges from the outset, with riders often receiving payments late and not receiving reimbursements. Team member Alice McWilliam placed third at the Rapha Lincoln Grand Prix, and the team participated in the 2025 Tour of Britain.

However, the team struggled financially, with one rider stating they were lucky to raise half a million pounds as a team. There were also allegations of missed payments to riders, and the team faced significant bills during team camps and other expenses. Hess Cycling faced a turbulent year with the fraud investigation and allegations of unpaid payments.

The team's sponsor withdrew at the beginning of 2025, and Hess Sports Group continued to fund operations, contributing over £200,000 in summer 2025, while working to secure the team's future. Despite the shortfall in funding, the team was able to compete while working on a sustainable model. Hess Sports Group remains committed to repaying all its creditors.

The anonymous rider expressed disappointment, stating that the team had a duty to them as riders, but ultimately failed to fulfill that responsibility.