There are many athletes who have reached a top level in cycling after coming from different sports, but Sophie Alisch’s transition has to rank among the most radical.

The 23-year-old German spent a decade in boxing – a tenure that belied her age, as did her achievements. Her pathway into the sport began unexpectedly, when she sought to improve footwork in her original sport of tennis. After winning the German U19 boxing national title in 2026 at just 14, she became the youngest ever boxer selected for the German Elite Olympic Team, going on to win bronze at the 2017 European Junior Championships. More national and international medals followed before she turned professional at the end of 2018. Remaining undefeated until her retirement from boxing, she was ranked inside the world’s top 10 by multiple organisations.

Sophie announced her bold transition to cycling in June 2025, before signing a contract with CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto Generation for the 2026 season.

“It honestly feels surreal. To join a team with such a strong identity, depth, and purpose is a huge honour. I come from a different sport, a different world in many ways, but from the very first conversation, I felt this team understood what drives me. It feels like the perfect place to grow, learn, and prove myself all over again.”

The Berlin-born fighter now trades battles in the ring for those on the road, bringing her relentless drive and physical prowess to CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto Generation.

“Coming from world-class boxing, I bring a certain mentality: discipline, resilience, and an all-in attitude. I know how to suffer, how to fight through pain, and how to stay focused when things get tough. I think that this mindset can add something to the team environment. I also want to bring energy, support my teammates, learn from them, and hopefully give some of that fighter’s spirit back in return.”

It’s exciting to see a long-time elite athlete with a champion’s mindset bring their unique skillset into a new sporting arena. Compared to boxing, does Sophie really have anything to worry about on two wheels?