The solution to having more Americans in the Tour de France rests on our current youth development system. And right now, the American system faces hard times.

A year after missing out on racing in California, the squad upgraded to the Pro Continental level and has high hopes for 2018.

Billed as "America's Toughest Stage Race," the Tour of Utah serves as an important stepping stone for younger riders and teams.

Axel Merckx's process for choosing riders is equal parts art and science.

Axel Merckx is cultivating some of the most talented young riders in cycling through his Axeon Hagens Berman cycling Team.

Axel Merckx never expected to direct a development team, but for years he's been at the helm of one of cycling's most prolific outfits.

Under the management of Axel Merckx, Axeon has seen plenty of talented cyclists ride through its ranks

The Axeon Cycling Team is the latest iteration of Merckx's successful development squad, which was formerly Bissell Development Team

Three of the top-five riders in the GC after the first two stages are 23 years old or younger

Bontrager rider took third in the time trial at U.S. nationals and won the most courageous jersey at the Amgen Tour of California