Luke Lamperti Joins EF Education-EasyPost | EF Pro Cycling
Racing
American Talent Boosts Our Classics Squad
November 4, 2025
Picture this: a young American cyclist bursting onto the global stage, ready to conquer the toughest races in cycling's elite WorldTour. That's Luke Lamperti, and his move to EF Education-EasyPost promises to ignite excitement for fans everywhere. But here's where it gets controversial – can an American team truly dominate the European classics, or is it just the start of a fresh rivalry?
The 22-year-old from Santa Rosa, California, is set to bolster EF Education-EasyPost's lineup starting in 2026, bringing his lightning-fast sprinting abilities and the unyielding grit of a veteran classics rider. As he enters his third season in the WorldTour, Luke has already racked up six victories, including a triumphant stage win at this summer's Czech Tour. He's also claimed podium spots in prestigious Belgian one-day races like Danilith Nokere Koers and the Bredene Koksijde Classic, fueling his ambition to secure wins in the sport's iconic monuments while donning the EF Education-EasyPost jersey. For beginners, think of these monuments as the crown jewels of cycling – epic races like the Tour of Flanders or Paris-Roubaix that test riders over challenging terrain and are steeped in decades of history.
“I'm absolutely thrilled to become part of the team,” Luke shares with enthusiasm. “I know a bunch of the riders already and can't wait to blend into such a welcoming group. It truly feels like returning home – after all, it's an American squad. Cycling might not be a massive phenomenon in the US, but being an American cyclist joining an American WorldTour outfit? That's something truly special.”
Luke's journey began on two wheels of a different kind: motocross bikes. As a child, he turned to cycling to build strength for those dirt bike adventures, discovering a newfound sense of liberation while exploring the scenic roads of his hometown. And this is the part most people miss – how his motocross background instilled a relentless drive that translated seamlessly to pedaling.
“Where I grew up in Sonoma County, the riding is absolutely incredible,” Luke recalls fondly. “I fell head over heels for exploring those paths, pushing myself to improve constantly. Setting goals kept me motivated, and things progressed rapidly, leading me to where I am today.”
His motocross expertise, coupled with sheer determination and physical power, propelled him to the forefront of America's competitive youth racing scene. Soon, he was competing for one of the nation's premier junior teams and venturing to Europe with the American national squad. Achievements like his top-10 finish at Paris-Roubaix Juniors – a grueling junior version of the famous race – secured him a place on Trinity Racing, where he shared the road with future EF Education-EasyPost teammates Ben Healy, Max Walker, and Lukas Nerurkar.
“That marked my full-time move to Europe and a total commitment to a professional lifestyle,” Luke explains. “I wasn't officially a pro yet, but we tackled a complete European race schedule. After three years with Trinity, I turned professional, and the shift was surprisingly smooth. From my debut races, I felt right at home, posting solid results in my first season alongside a few challenges – overall, it was a fantastic leap. The past two years have been a real joy.”
Luke is eager to maintain that upward trajectory with EF Education-EasyPost, showcasing his versatility across diverse terrains, from the undulating, gusty landscapes of spring classics to the multi-stage adventures of summer races. For those new to the sport, classics are single-day events that demand tactical prowess and endurance, often on cobblestones or hills, while grand tours are multi-week odysseys like the Tour de France, broken into stages.
“Luke stands out as an exceptional sprinter and a formidable classics contender who excels at leading out teammates,” notes EF Pro Cycling founder and CEO Jonathan Vaughters. “He's a natural leader, remarkably so for someone his age. At 22, he already functions as a road captain, adept at guiding a peloton and deciphering race strategies with precision. He'll be a cornerstone of our classics team in the cobbled battles of races like the Tour of Flanders. He'll also serve as a key sprinter for us. Plus, I envision him as a valuable mentor to Noah Hobbs, our rising U23 sprinting sensation joining us for 2026. Experiencing a grand tour this year, paired with a demanding schedule like Luke's, should position him perfectly for triumph next season. I can envision him claiming a race such as Gent Wevelgem. And if we're dreaming big: Milano-Sanremo. Luke thrives in races that are technically intricate and tactically demanding.”
Luke aligns with this vision, seeing his growth heading in a similar vein.
“I'd describe myself as a sprinter, but not the pure, out-and-out variety,” he clarifies. “I'm more of a punchy sprinter – one who excels in classics and those sprints with fewer competitors. Events like Milano-Sanremo are where I'd love to shine. In the future, I'd also aim for more grand tour stages.”
Yet, his true passion lies with the classics. He flourishes amid the blustery cobblestones and eagerly anticipates tackling Belgium's iconic bergs (those steep, short climbs) with his new classics crew, including fellow Americans Neilson Powless and Colby Simmons. But here's where it gets controversial – some argue that American riders bring a fresh, aggressive style that could revolutionize the classics, while others wonder if it dilutes the traditional European dominance.
“I adore the adrenaline rush that courses through the entire duration of classics races,” Luke enthuses. “Whether it's 200 kilometers or just two to go, the excitement never wanes. I thrive on that full-day intensity, the relentless racing, and the strategic positioning on cobbled ascents. Plus, the fans and the vibrant cycling culture in Belgium are simply unbeatable.”
Luke understands that chasing his cycling aspirations demands a laser focus on the journey itself. With EF Education-EasyPost, he's assured of the backing required to rival the world's finest.
“My goal is to maximize my potential throughout my career,” he affirms. “I want to excel in the planet's premier races. For me, it's all about continually elevating my game until I'm contending for victories in the most monumental events.”
This move to EF Education-EasyPost represents a pivotal stride forward for Luke. Welcome aboard, Luke!
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What do you think – does Luke's motocross background give him an edge over purely dedicated cyclists, or is it just a fun anecdote? And should American teams prioritize homegrown talent in European-style races? We'd love to hear your opinions – agree, disagree, or add your take in the comments below!
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