Ian Ackert did not spend long in limbo. Just weeks after confirming his departure from Trek Future Racing, the Ontario rider announced he will race for Pivot Cycles OTE in 2026. For a young athlete it is a fast pivot that keeps momentum intact after an offseason shake-up.
“After two great years with Trek Future Racing, it’s time to part ways,” Ackert wrote when the split was made public. “I will be forever grateful for everything this team has helped me accomplish during my first years in U23.”
From dream program to uncertainty
Ackert joined Trek Future Racing at the start of 2024 following a breakout junior season that included a world championship podium in XCO and a Pan American under-23 cyclocross title.
For a Canadian rider, it was a dream landing spot.
Over two seasons, Ackert gained experience racing in Europe, access to top-tier equipment and the structure that allows young riders to focus entirely on performance. When the Trek Future Racing program came to an end in late 2025, Ackert was among those left searching for a new ride.
It is a familiar story in modern mountain biking. Even results do not guarantee continuity.
Why Pivot-OTE makes sense
Pivot-OTE is not a consolation prize. As their website states, “Team Pivot Cycles-OTE is the only cross-country UCI Canadian mountain biking team and is proud to inspire, compete, and contribute to the mountain biking world on all levels.”
Their mission statement is, “Building the future of Canadian mountain bike racing.” And in the past their roster has included riders like Cole Punchard, Ella MacPhee, Gunnar Holmgren, the Disera brothers and many more.
“2026 is approaching fast and we’re super stoked to share the news,” the team announced.
A rider still trending upward
Ackert’s results suggest his best years are still ahead. Strong across disciplines, he has shown the ability to race mountain bike and cyclocross at a high level while adapting quickly to international competition.
The under-23 category is unforgiving. Landing with Pivot-OTE ensures Ackert will continue racing at World Cup events with a team that understands patience and progression.
The bigger picture for Canadian XC
Ackert’s signing also reinforces a broader theme in Canadian cross-country racing. While factory pipelines can close suddenly, riders who perform and carry themselves well tend to find another door open.
Pivot-OTE gives Ackert the chance to reset, refocus and keep building toward…
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