The most spectacular newcomer is Nina Hoffmann, who was previously in Santa Cruz's Grassroots program. The German was initially a javelin thrower before she started mountain biking after an injury. Since 2018, she has been competing in the Downhill World Cup as a private rider, steadily improving and winning her first World Cup race in 2020 - the first German World Cup victory in 25 years. Hoffmann's move to the Santa Cruz Syndicate is also a first: she is the first woman to join this legendary downhill team.

After six years with Team MS Mondraker, Brit Laurie Greenland joins the downhill syndicate. Greenland is not only an established podium contender, but also fits perfectly into the team: with his love of bikes, surfing and skating, the Brit could almost come from Santa Cruz's Californian hometown - Santa Cruz, in fact.

The third new addition to the Santa Cruz Syndicate is former Canadian child star Jackson Goldstone. In 2010, he rode his kickbike on the way to kindergarten into the hearts of thousands of bike fans. Today, Goldstone is junior downhill world champion. Santa Cruz is all the more pleased that the Canadian will be tackling his second U19 season in the Syndicate colors.

Talking of colors: While the team riders have previously had their own apparel sponsors, Greg, Laurie, Nina and Jackson will be riding head-to-toe in Fox Racing apparel starting this year.

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