Caja Rural signs Colombian climber Santiago Umba

In late July 2026, Spanish UCI ProTeam Caja Rural‑Seguros RGA announced the signing of 23‑year‑old Colombian climber Santiago Umba from Boyacá. The team said his mountain‑specialist abilities would deepen its climbing roster and accelerate his development in European races.

The same announcement also noted that Spanish Continental outfit Equipo Kern Pharma promoted three U‑23 riders—Emilio García, Unax Errasti and Hugo Tapiz—to stagiaire status, highlighting the club’s focus on nurturing young talent.

A few days later, on 1 August 2026, Caja Rural reiterated Umba’s addition, emphasizing his experience on high‑mountain stages and the tactical options he provides for medium‑ and high‑altitude races. Management framed the signing as part of a broader strategy to invest in emerging riders to improve performance in stage races across the Iberian and wider European calendar.