# Astana cycling team contract extensions

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/astana-cycling-team-contract-extensions
> Updated: 2026-09-10T09:25:00.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

The Astana cycling team has secured long-term commitments from two Italian riders. In August 2026, veteran Diego Ulissi extended his contract with the Astana Qazaqstan Team for an additional year, entering his 18th professional season. Team manager Alexandr Vinokourov noted Ulissi’s role as a “true leader” who provides experience to younger teammates.

Following this, in September 2026, 23-year-old Alessandro Romele signed a two-year extension with the XDS-Astana team, keeping him with the squad through the 2027 and 2028 seasons. Romele’s extension follows strong performances at the Vuelta a España, where he achieved five top-ten finishes during the first 16 stages.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-10: Alessandro Romele extends XDS-Astana contract until 2028

Cyclist Alessandro Romele has extended his contract with XDS-Astana through 2028 following strong performances at the Vuelta a España.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/alessandro-romele-extends-xds-astana-contract-until-2028

### 2026-08-11: Diego Ulissi extends contract with Astana Qazaqstan Team

Veteran Italian cyclist Diego Ulissi has extended his contract with the Astana Qazaqstan Team for one more year, entering his 18th season at the World Tour level.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/diego-ulissi-extends-contract-with-astana-qazaqstan-team

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Cite as: Astana cycling team contract extensions. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/astana-cycling-team-contract-extensions