NSN Cycling Team is pleased to announce the contract extensions of New Zealanders Corbin Strong, Dion Smith, and George Bennett, securing the Kiwi trio for the coming seasons.
Strong has signed a new three-year contract with the team through to 2029, while Smith has committed for a further two years and Bennett will continue for another season.
The three riders bring different qualities and experience to the team, with Strong continuing his development as one of New Zealand’s leading talents, Smith providing versatility and reliability across a wide range of races, and Bennett adding considerable experience and climbing strength to the squad.
NSN Cycling Team General Manager Kjell Carlström says the Kiwis have become an integral part of the team.
“Corbin Strong, Dion Smith, and George Bennett all bring different qualities to the team but what unites them is how well all three fit into our team culture,” says Carlström. “Corbin is one of our leaders and having spent all five years of his pro career with us, we are thrilled to add another three years to our collaboration. We have no doubt that Corbin will continue to develop and add more victories to his palmarès.
“Dion joined us this year and quickly proved his value as a teammate. He supported several of our leaders in a variety of races, so it was an easy decision to renew his contract and continue our collaboration. Likewise for George Bennett, one of the team’s stalwart road captains. George’s experience is invaluable for the team and will prove crucial in 2027 with our increased General Classification focus.”
For Strong, the three-year agreement represents a long-term commitment as the 26-year-old continues to pursue his ambitions.
“I’m really excited to re-sign with the team,” adds Strong. “I’ve been here for five years already, and it’s been really cool to be part of the journey and see how much the team has grown and improved over that time. I really enjoy the environment within the team and have built some great relationships with the riders and staff, which was a big part of wanting to stay.
“I feel like we’re continuing to get better every year, and I’m excited to play my part in that. Over the next three years I hope to keep progressing personally, help the team continue to grow, and see us become more and more prominent in the biggest races in the world.”
Smith may have only spent the best part of a year in NSN colors but it was an easy choice for the 33-year-old to renew his contract.
“I didn’t have to think twice about staying with NSN,” adds Smith. “It was the perfect environment for me this year. I had clear goals mainly helping our leaders, which the team trusted in my abilities to do so, and this gave me a new sense of motivation. I look forward to continuing to do my best for the team in the coming two years and being surrounded by good people on and off the bike.”
2027 will mark Bennett’s 16th year as a pro and with the likes of Santiago Buitrago and Lennert Van Eetvelt joining the team in 2027, the 36-year-old will play a key General Classification support role.
“I’ve found a real nice home here in the team,” explains Bennett. “I feel like the team is really building towards the future and has a lot of ambition and I’m able to contribute towards that progression. I’m excited to play my part and continue in the great environment we have in the team. We are surrounded by great people and it’s nice to have a taste of home with a good Kiwi presence in the team.”
