After nine years racing as PYGA Euro Steel, the team will line up in 2026 under a new name: FORD Prime Bunch.
The change marks the next phase of a programme that has grown steadily over nearly a decade of professional racing. As PYGA Euro Steel, the team became a consistent presence at the top end of South African and African mountain biking with strong results across marathon and cross-country racing, Absa Cape Epic stage wins, national and continental titles and regular appearances at the sport’s biggest events.
Alongside the racing success, the structure behind the team evolved into Prime Bunch, a cycling industry distributor built on firsthand racing experience. The business imports, distributes and develops premium cycling and endurance-sport products, working closely with retailers, teams and events. The focus has remained practical, products that work, backed by proper support, tested in real racing conditions.
“The move from PYGA Euro Steel to FORD Prime Bunch isn’t a reset, it’s a continuation. We’re proud of what the team has built over nine years and this partnership gives us the platform to keep doing it properly,” said Ruan Lochner.
That same approach underpins the partnership with Ford, whose involvement in cycling has expanded steadily through initiatives such as the Ford Trailseeker Series, vehicle partnerships at major races including Race to the Sea and Race to the Sun and participation in the Cycle Lab Schools Series.
For FORD Prime Bunch, this alignment matters. The team places value on being visible beyond elite racing, particularly at school and development events, where young riders can see a long-term pathway in the sport.
“Ford has been involved with the team since 2024, and the relationship has grown naturally. The professionalism of the riders and the way the team engages with the cycling community stood out. Moving into a title sponsorship was a logical next step, built on shared values rather than a single season of results.” said John Landey.
While the team name changes, key long-term partners remain in place. PYGA Mountain Bikes continues as bike sponsor, maintaining a relationship built on years of development, testing and racing success.
“Our bikes are designed to be raced hard in African conditions and this team has played a key role in proving them at the highest level. Staying involved with FORD Prime Bunch is a natural continuation of that journey.” said Mark Hopkins.
King Price Insurance also remains involved with the programme, continuing its support of cycling through the team and major events such as Race to the Sun.
“We support cycling because it’s real, accessible and community-driven. Backing this team fits with how we approach the sport, long-term and hands-on.” said Wynand van Vuuren.
In addition to the exciting new title partnership, the team is proud to confirm the continued support of several long-standing and trusted partners for the 2026 season. Öhlins Suspension, Maxxis Tyres, SRAM Components, Csixx, FORE Nutrition, Leatt, Kalas Sportswear, Navihood and Sigeyi Powermeters all remain firmly committed to the program. Their ongoing involvement plays a crucial role in delivering world-class equipment, performance and support.
2026 rider line-up:
The professional roster combines experience and emerging talent.
Philip Buys enters his second decade as a professional cyclist. With multiple Absa Cape Epic stage wins, Olympic representation for South Africa and a few national titles along the way. “This team has always been built around long-term thinking. Ford understands what it means to support the sport properly,” said Buys.
Pieter du Toit, one of Africa’s strongest stage racers has claimed an African Jersey with Buys and also has an Absa Cape Epic stage win under his belt. “Ford’s involvement across all levels of cycling makes this partnership feel right,” said du Toit.
Michael Foster, the youngest rider on the roster, defended his XCO National Championship in 2025 and went on to win the African Continental XCO title. His 2026 focus includes selected UCI XCO World Cup events. “I grew up watching teams like this. Being present at school races is where the next generation starts,” said Foster.
Mountain biking demands reliability, durability and performance in tough conditions, values that closely mirror Ford’s focus on real-world capability. The partnership reflects a shared understanding of equipment tested properly, not gently.
