Leaked video appears to confirm Bahrain Victorious switch to Bianchi
A leaked video showing Santiago Buitrago on an all-black Bianchi frame appears to confirm that WorldTeam Bahrain Victorious is swapping Merida for fellow Italian bike brand Bianchi.
🚨 LEAKED: Bahrain Victorious rider Santiago Buitrago spotted on a new Bianchi bike. 🩵
— Lukáš Ronald Lukács (@lucasaganronald) November 8, 2025
With this video, the rumour of a change from Merida to Bianchi for Bahrain Victorious seems to be confirmed. pic.twitter.com/O3rLyh3mZb
It's not particularly unusual for riders to test ride alternative bikes in the off-season without necessarily indicating an ongoing or upcoming relationship, however, there have been rumours of an end to the partnership between Bahrain Victorious and Merida, with which they've worked for nine years. Add to that the fact that Arkéa-B&B Hotels is folding at the close of this season, leaving Bianchi adrift, and the stars appear to be aligning in favour of these two organisations coming together.
