INTENSE Factory Racing Welcomes Juanfer Vélez to the Team
INTENSE Factory Racing is thrilled to announce the latest addition to our 2025 rider roster—Colombian downhill sensation Juanfer Vélez! Despite only getting his first downhill bike in 2023, Juanfer has taken the racing world by storm with his blistering speed, undeniable skill, and pure passion for the sport.
photographer: @marioxmedia
Olly Morris, Performance Director, couldn’t be more excited to have Juanfer onboard:
“After spending a weekend with Juanfer in Barcelona, it’s clear what a great person and insane rider he is. He’s easily one of the fastest riders I’ve ever seen—honestly, I’m not sure he even uses the brakes! With a bit of refinement in his race craft, the sky is the limit for him. It’s going to be an exciting year for us!”
Juanfer’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. He earned an impressive 3rd place at Red Bull Hardline Wales in 2024 and a 13th place finish at the 2023 Les Gets World Cup, proving he can compete with the fastest riders in the world. These results are just the start of what’s to come.
photographer: @marioxmedia
John Hall, Technical Director at INTENSE Cycles, shared his enthusiasm:
“We’re beyond stoked to welcome Juanfer to INTENSE Factory Racing and INTENSE Cycles. His talent is undeniable, from his Red Bull Cerro Abajo performances to his Hardline podium. We’re excited to support him as he grows into a top World Cup athlete. We can’t wait to see what he brings to the team and the sport we all love—RACING! Welcome to INTENSE, Juanfer!”
As part of one of the most respected teams in downhill racing, Juanfer will have access to the expertise, support, and resources needed to push his performance to the next level. With his incredible 2024 results and the full backing of the INTENSE Factory Racing crew, we know he’s poised for even bigger things in 2025 and beyond.
photographer: @marioxmedia
Juanfer expressed his gratitude:
“For me, being on IFR is more than a dream come true—it’s an opportunity few riders ever get. I feel lucky to be part of a factory team. It’s incredible to know I have the right people to help me achieve my goals. I’m so grateful to IFR for this chance and can’t wait to show what we’re made of. I’m just a kid from the neighborhood, but I’m ready to prove what we can achieve!”
Please join us in welcoming Juanfer Vélez to the INTENSE Factory Racing family! We can’t wait to see what he’ll accomplish in 2025 and beyond.
photographer: @marioxmedia
