The Zwift Academy has revolutionized cycling by turning virtual racing into real-world opportunities. Since its launch in 2016, this innovative program has helped amateur riders earn professional contracts, proving that talent can be discovered anywhere—even from a living room.
This blog explores the success stories of Zwift Academy winners, how the competition works, and what it takes to follow in their footsteps.
Zwift Academy is a virtual training and competition program hosted on the Zwift indoor cycling platform. Created in partnership with professional cycling teams, it offers amateurs a structured pathway to pro cycling through:
Guided Workouts – Scientifically designed training plans.
Competitive Races – Virtual races that test speed, endurance, and tactics.
Pro Team Selection – The top performers earn a spot in a final selection camp, with the winner securing a professional contract.
The program has men’s and women’s divisions, with past editions sponsored by teams like:
Canyon//SRAM (Women’s WorldTour)
Team Dimension Data / Qhubeka (Men’s WorldTour)
Wahoo Le Col (UK-based development team)
Background: A former marathon runner with no elite cycling experience.
Zwift Journey: Dominated the 2016 Zwift Academy with her endurance and power.
Pro Contract: Earned a spot with Canyon//SRAM but later transitioned to gravel racing.
Legacy: Proved that non-cyclists could break into pro racing through Zwift.
Background: A Slovenian amateur with strong results in local races.
Zwift Journey: Impressed coaches with his climbing ability and race IQ.
Pro Contract: Joined Team Dimension Data (now Qhubeka) and raced in Tour de France qualifiers.
Legacy: Showed that Zwift could identify hidden talent outside traditional scouting networks.
Background: A New Zealand cyclist with untapped potential.
Zwift Journey: Consistently topped the leaderboard with strong FTP numbers.
Pro Contract: Signed with Canyon//SRAM, competing in Giro Rosa & La Course.
Legacy: Became one of the most successful Zwift Academy graduates.
Background: A track cyclist from New Zealand looking to transition to road racing.
Zwift Journey: Showed explosive power and endurance in virtual races.
Pro Contract: Joined Canyon//SRAM and later Team BikeExchange.
Legacy: Demonstrated how track cyclists could use Zwift to switch disciplines.
Background: A relatively unknown British rider with strong time trial abilities.
Zwift Journey: Excelled in structured workouts and virtual TTs.
Pro Contract: Earned a spot with Wahoo Le Col, racing in the UK and Europe.
Legacy: Highlighted how time trial specialists could thrive in Zwift Academy.
No Geographic Limits – Riders from anywhere can compete.
Lower Financial Barriers – No need for expensive travel to be scouted.
Equal Opportunities for Women – The women’s division has grown significantly.
Teams analyze:
FTP (Functional Threshold Power)
W/kg (Power-to-Weight Ratio)
Race Tactics & Recovery
Pro Teams Now Scout on Zwift – Alpecin-Deceuninck, EF Pro Cycling, and others use virtual racing to find talent.
More Hybrid Events – Races like Virtual Tour de France have gained legitimacy.
Smart Trainer / Smart Bike (e.g., Wahoo KICKR, Tacx Neo)
Zwift Membership (~$15/month)
Power Meter & Heart Rate Monitor (for accurate data)
Follow Structured Workouts – Build FTP and endurance.
Race Regularly – Learn pack dynamics and sprint tactics.
Analyze Your Data – Use Zwift Power or TrainingPeaks to track progress.
Consistency is Key – Complete all required workouts.
Engage with the Community – Join Zwift group rides for motivation.
Stay Patient – Many winners tried multiple times before succeeding.
Expansion to More Teams – More pro squads may adopt the model.
Junior & Masters Categories – Potential growth into age-group competitions.
Integration with Real Races – Hybrid events could become standard.
The Zwift Academy winners prove that virtual cycling is more than just a game—it’s a legitimate pathway to professional racing. From Leah Thorvilson’s groundbreaking win in 2016 to Ollie Jones’ 2021 success, the program has transformed lives and reshaped how teams discover talent.
Whether you’re an amateur dreaming of a pro contract or just looking to improve, Zwift Academy offers an unparalleled opportunity. The next winner could be you!
1. How often does Zwift Academy run?
Usually once per year, with registration in late summer/fall.
2. Do I need a pro-level FTP to win?
Not necessarily—racecraft, consistency, and coachability matter just as much.
3. Can track cyclists or triathletes succeed?
Yes! Michaela Drummond (track) and Leah Thorvilson (marathoner) transitioned successfully.
4. Is there an age limit?
Typically 18+, but some development programs may vary.
5. What’s the biggest mistake Zwift Academy hopefuls make?
Neglecting recovery—overtraining leads to burnout before finals.
