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Gravel Racer Matt Holmes Partners with HJC Sports for the 2026 Gravel Season
British professional cyclist Matthew Holmes will wear HJC Sports helmets throughout the 2026 season, as the brand continues 2025’s unofficial relationship, joining other key sponsors such as Factor and OGT.
Holmes, a former World Tour rider is a long time user of HJC, first wearing their helmets during his time riding for the Lotto Soudal team. Winner of the 2024 Gralloch and the 114 Gravel UCI Gravel World Series races, 2026’s race calendar will focus on the Gralloch again, Unbound and the Lincoln GP road race.
As part of the partnership, Holmes will wear HJC’s FURION 3 aero helmet, as well as the forthcoming BELLUS 2, a fully ventilated helmet aimed at gravel and bike-packing. Both helmets feature HJC’s advanced concussion protection from SLID™ (Sliding Layer Impact Distribution) which works with both rotational and blunt force impacts.
Back with HJC – Matt Holmes
“I’m really excited to partner with HJC for 2026. Having used their helmets this past season, I know that the fit is great, and the helmet really works for me. My best ever result was a stage win at the Tour Down Under whilst wearing HJC. I have great memories with the brand and am really happy to be back with HJC for 2026.” Holmes said of this partnership.
HJC has built a strong reputation in both motorsport and cycling, supplying helmets to MotoGP riders,World Tour Cyclists as well as Formula 1. The collaboration with Holmes reflects the brand’s continued investment in cycling, and commitment to gravel – the breakthrough discipline of the last 5 years.
Richard Todd, HJC Sports’s European Brand and Sales Director said:
“From the first moment I met Matt in Girona and we talked about his riding, I knew that he would fit the brand well. His pragmatic approach recognises all elements of helmet design as important. So aero is on the list, but it is ventilation and fit that make a helmet usable for everyone. He also praised the look of the FURION 3!”
“We’re super proud to support Matt. He has shown that he is one of the best in the world racing gravel. His input will be indispensable, especially as we have a gravel launch coming in April. His attacking style and professional background make him an exciting athlete to work with, and we look forward to supporting his ambitions throughout the 2026 season.””.
Holmes’ 2026 gravel campaign will include a mix of UK and international events, with further race announcements to follow. As a privateer he really is free to choose the brands he works with.
About Matt Holmes
Matthew Holmes is a British professional cyclist who has competed at the highest level of international road racing. In 2024 he moved to gravel racing as a privateer, targeting major events across the UK and Europe.
About HJC
Founded in 1971, HJC is a global motorcycle helmet manufacturer known for its innovation, safety standards, and commitment to performance across cycling and motorsport disciplines. HJC Sports takes that knowledge and expertise and applies it to bicycle helmets, creating market leading products with the highest possible pedigree.
