The CPA riders' association (Cyclistes Professionnels Associés) issued a lengthy statement calling for unity within the peloton, but Cycling News understands that the rebel group of about 300 riders is still intent on seeking change ...

An extraordinary CPA general meeting is scheduled for October, where the rebel riders hope to introduce more direct voting methods and representation to challenge the CPA constitution.

In an open letter sent to the riders, CPA President Gianni Buño condemned the rebels and called on them to be more active in the CPA.

"I am very disappointed by all the attacks against our association," Buño wrote. To avoid misunderstanding, we ask that you stay informed and not believe the lies being spread by those who are ignorant of the facts and seek to discredit what we do for our riders and put their own interests ahead of the riders."

"We are very disappointed in the attacks against our association," he wrote.

"If something is not clear or if you have questions about our actions, there is no need to create a petition."

The rebel riders, who came together after signing a petition during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, have not formed a formal group, but are pushing for more participation and a more direct one rider, one vote system. Former rider Steph Clement is coordinating the initial rallying of the rebels, and Luke Eisenga, who has worked with many teams, and the AIGCP (Association of Teams) are guiding them.

About 340 riders have signed on, but they are already under pressure from the teams. However, the group will continue to press for change through dialogue with the CPA and through the CPA's extraordinary general meeting. It also plans to study the legality of the CPA's voting system.

The CPA is funded by 2% from riders' prize money, a portion of WorldTour funds, and donations from the UCI. Cycling's historical nations such as France, Italy, and Spain dominate the CPA. National federations are allowed to block votes in the CPA General Assembly, and the major countries use their large membership numbers to take the lead. Individual riders not represented by national federations must attend the CPA General Assembly in person if they wish to vote.

At Monday's meeting, new national associations representing riders from Belgium and Australia officially became part of the CPA, further strengthening the power of national associations.

According to information from Cycling News, Chris Froome is a member of the dissident group and attended the CPA general assembly on Monday night along with Philippe Gilbert and about 20 other riders and national representatives.

The CPA revealed that UCI President David Lapartiento was also present, and that the UCI's Professional Cycling Council used funds from the UCI's World Tour Reserve Fund for a legal battle in the European courts between the Veron Group and the Italian Team Association The Council explained its reasons for approving the use of funds from the UCI's World Tour Reserve Fund.

Bugno described the reports of demands by the rebels as "fake news." He insisted that the CPA is open and transparent and works in the interest of its riders. Bugno defended the rigor of the Umbrella National Association.

"As you know, we are committed to promoting the establishment of new national associations around the world.

"This is not an easy task, but we believe it is the best solution for our delegation to best represent you. In fact, they speak your language, know the laws of your country, and have close relations with the sporting bodies and national authorities of your country."

"Cycling is becoming increasingly global and the CPA also firmly believes in the association-based model chosen at its inception. We look forward to your support in this complex project. Please help us identify the right people we can trust to protect you at the local level as well."