For two decades Astana has been pro cycling's most resilient near-death experience. In 2024 it was stranded at the bottom of the WorldTour, facing relegation; a year later it finished fourth. The difference is Chinese money - but the 'first Chinese WorldTour team' label is looser than it looks.

For two decades Astana has been pro cycling's most resilient near-death experience. In 2024 it was stranded at the bottom of the WorldTour, facing relegation; a year later it finished fourth. The difference is Chinese money - but the 'first Chinese WorldTour team' label is looser than it looks.