Interview Moroj Adil 

Riding a bike became evident in more & more parts of the World, but some regions still remain a blind spot on the cycling map. Today, we talk to a rider from a country where cycling is setting it's first steps. Moroj Adil Felemban tells about how cycling is developing in her homeland and also about her personal growth. In this interview, we give an often overlooked perspective of how to build up a cycling community from zero and which challenges that come with it for the riders from those respective countries. A conversation with a now 27 years old rider who moved barriers and who wants to be a pioneer in her country. The very first steps for more representation for girls from Saudi Arabia & the Middle East in the world of cycling.

How did you discover cycling and decide to take part in it?

Few years ago, after my dad passed away I had to find a sadness coping method, and I experienced cycling almost by accident .. It started with casual rides, then quickly turned into a passion. I loved how cycling tested me, physically, mentally, and emotionally. What really pushed me to take it seriously was realizing how powerful it could be, not just for me, but for what it could represent back home. I wanted to be part of something bigger to break barriers, represent my country, and help open doors for others in the region.

You're the first rider from Saudi Arabia in the peloton, how much does it mean for you?

It means a lot to me, not just personally, but for what it represents. Being the first rider from Saudi Arabia in the professional peloton is both an honor and a responsibility, and I hope my presence inspires the next generation of Saudi cyclists to dream big and believe thatanything is possible. Cycling is growing fast back home, and I want to be part of that change, not just competing at the highest level, but helping to build a cycling culture in Saudi Arabia that lasts for generations

You're one of the few Arab riders in the peloton, how could we support cyclists in the region better in the future?

That’s a great question. I think the key is creating more pathways, from grassroots to pro. In many Arab countries, the passion for cycling is growing fast, but we still lack consistent access to coaching, structured development programs, and race opportunities. One way to support the region is by building partnerships. European teams, race organizers, and brands can play a huge role by investing in talent and helping to transfer knowledge. What GreenEdge Cycling has done and keep doing it is amazing and such a great example for the other WorldTour teams, they are building and extending the cycling path that we need to see. More regional UCI races, training camps, and even exchange programs would go a long way. There’s a lot of untapped potential in the Arab world ,it just needs visibility and the right support to shine.

What are your dreams in the sport?

I do not have dreams, I have a clear vision of where and who I want to be. A clear vision of which race podium I am going on the top of it. Dreams are thing we just keep inside our thoughts and imagination, but a vision is what make us work and alive every day.

How did it feel to ride abroad for a foreign team for the first time?

It was a mix of excitement and pressure. Riding abroad for a foreign team for the first time felt like stepping into a new world, the level of professionalism, the intensity, and specially the culture, everything was new. But it also felt like a breakthrough, like I was opening a door not just for myself, but for other riders from Saudi and the region. There were challenges, climate, being far from family, and sometimes even struggle with food ,but I saw it as an opportunity to grow, both as a cyclist and a person. It made me hungrier to prove that we belong at this level and can compete with the best. I still remember my first camp with the team, how I was feeling, struggling, shy and nervous, but now, I am totally a different person, and so glad of how things turned into the right place.

You learnt riding a bike after your childhood. How did you experience the learning process?

It was definitely unusual, I didn’t grow up riding like most kids in Europe do. I learned later, as an adult.. which is only few years ago. At first I struggled with basic things like balance and group riding. But that also gave me a different kind of appreciation for the sport. I had to work hard to catch up, and every small progress felt like a big achievement. It taught me discipline and patience. In a way, starting late made me more hungry, more focused. I didn’t take anything for granted, and I still don’t.

What are your main interests outside the sport? How would you present yourself to our readers?

I’m also interested in motorsports, art, classic music, and building creative projects that connect sport with culture. I’d say I’m someone who’s curious, driven, and proud of where I come from. I want to break stereotypes, not just as a cyclist from the Arab world, but as someone who believes sport can open minds and bring people together.

You're an inspiration and example to many young girls in your country. Which message would you like to give them?

For me personally, I am aiming to open doors and make opportunities for the next generations, not only inspire them! And I want to say to every young girl in Saudi ,or anywhere in the region, you don’t need to be perfect to begin, you just need to begin. And if you stay consistent, one day you’ll look back and see how far you’ve come. I hope my story shows them that it’s possible, and I’m always here to support the next generation. We rise by lifting each other.