BIKE AID as a Pathway to Success
Dániyal Matthews is no stranger to BIKE AID. For two years, he has been a key part of the BIKE AID Development Team, the organization’s in-house talent squad. This team was established to offer young regional riders a platform – and true to the spirit of the pro team, it also provides opportunities for African cyclists. During his time in Germany, Matthews is supported by BIKE AID and gains crucial race experience. In his home country of South Africa, he rides for Team Siata.
Patrick Lechner, coach of the BIKE AID Development Team Südliche Weinstraße, expressed his excitement: “We didn’t expect this! Dániyal wasn’t necessarily one of the top favorites, but this victory proves just how much our work with these athletes is paying off. Successes like this make us incredibly proud and show that our concept of nurturing talent is now bearing fruit internationally.”
Cycling in South Africa: Between Elite Destination and Structural Disadvantage
For years, South Africa has been a popular winter training destination for wealthy triathletes and amateur athletes from Europe and the US. Prestigious events like the Cape Epic, one of the world’s most renowned mountain bike races, and the Cape Town Cycle Tour, the world’s largest mass participation cycling event with 35,000 riders, take place there. Yet despite these high-profile races, cycling remains a fringe sport in South Africa with minimal support. Often, even national team members must cover their own costs for international competition.
On top of that, stark inequalities in opportunities persist, often along racial lines. The fact that it’s still noteworthy in 2025 that Dániyal Matthews is the first peson of color to become South African champion underscores the barriers that still need to be broken down.
The Future of Dániyal Matthews
After this remarkable success, it’s time to plan the next steps. For the 2025 season, Matthews is set to return to Germany to further establish himself in European racing with BIKE AID and take on more high-level competitions. His national championship win highlights his enormous potential – and BIKE AID will continue to support him on his journey. It may soon be time to take the next step and integrate Matthews into our Continental Team.
Currently, Dániyal is racing at the Tour du Rwanda with the South African national team. We congratulate him on this fantastic achievement and look forward to seeing him soon in the colors of BIKE AID!
Photo: Holger Radifo
