Mikkel Bjerg: The Rise Of A Cycling Champion [News & More]

Dr. Leta Bartoletti 12 May 2025

Ever wondered what it takes to dominate the grueling world of professional cycling? Meet Mikkel Bjerg, the Danish powerhouse whose career is a testament to unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and the relentless pursuit of victory.

Born in Copenhagen, Denmark, on November 3, 1998, Mikkel Norsgaard Bjerg has rapidly ascended through the ranks of professional cycling to become a key figure in the UAE Team Emirates. Bjerg's journey began at a young age, quickly revealing a natural aptitude for time trials, an area where he would soon etch his name in cycling history. His early career was marked by a dedication that saw him transition from a promising junior to a dominant force in the under-23 category. The accolades began to accumulate, setting the stage for his leap into the professional realm. The cyclist is married to Emma Norsgaard Bjerg in 2021, who is also a professional cyclist.

Category	Information
Full Name	Mikkel Norsgaard Bjerg
Date of Birth	November 3, 1998
Place of Birth	Copenhagen, Denmark
Nationality	Danish
Height	(insert height)
Weight	Approximately 80 kg
Spouse	Emma Cecilie Norsgaard Bjerg (married 2021)
Current Team	UAE Team Emirates
Discipline	Road Cycling, Time Trial
Professional Debut	(Insert year of professional debut)
U23 World Championship Titles	3 (2017, 2018, 2019)
Key Strengths	Time trialing, Team support in stage races
Role in Team	Hjælperytter (support rider), Time Trial Specialist
Notable Teammates	Tadej Pogačar
Social Media	(Instagram Profile)
Reference	UAE Team Emirates Official Website

Bjerg's professional career is highlighted by an astounding three U23 World Championship titles, a feat that underscores his prowess against the clock. Winning in 2017, 2018 and 2019, Bjerg demonstrated a consistency and dominance rarely seen in the sport. These victories not only solidified his reputation as a time trial specialist but also served as a launchpad for his career in the upper echelons of professional cycling. Beyond his individual achievements, Mikkel Bjerg has become an invaluable member of the UAE Team Emirates. Tasked primarily as a "hjælperytter" or support rider, he plays a critical role in the team's strategy, particularly in major stage races. His strength and endurance make him essential for pacing, shielding team leaders, and controlling the peloton during key stages of a race.

One of Bjerg's primary responsibilities involves supporting star rider Tadej Pogačar. He has been seen as one of Pogačar’s bodyguards in both the United Arab Emirates and Flanders, showcasing his commitment to the team's success. During the Giro d'Italia, Bjerg was instrumental in helping Pogačar secure the overall victory. His contributions often go unnoticed by casual observers, but within the team, his efforts are highly valued. The dynamic between Bjerg and Pogačar exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between a team leader and a dedicated support rider. While Pogačar focuses on winning stages and contending for general classification, Bjerg ensures that he is well-positioned and protected from the numerous hazards of road racing. This involves controlling the pace on flat stages, providing assistance during climbs, and even offering his wheel in case of mechanical issues.

While Pogačar opted out of the classics in 2024, he is set to return in 2025 as the reigning world champion. This return is expected to bring new strategic dynamics to UAE Team Emirates, potentially involving Bjerg in different roles. In addition to his work on the road, Bjerg has also represented Denmark in track cycling, further demonstrating his versatility as a cyclist. His experience on the track provides him with a different set of skills that can be applied to road racing, such as enhanced bike handling and tactical awareness.

Mikkel Bjerg is married to Emma Cecilie Norsgaard Bjerg, who is also a professional cyclist. Emma, born on December 26, 1999, has achieved significant success in her own right, including winning the Danish national championship in both the road race and time trial. In 2023, she also won a stage in the Tour de France Femmes. Their shared passion for cycling creates a unique dynamic in their relationship, offering mutual support and understanding of the demands of professional sports. Together, they navigate the challenges of training, racing, and traveling around the world, sharing both the triumphs and setbacks that come with a career in cycling.

Bjerg is also slated to compete in the Olympics alongside fellow Danish cyclists Mads Pedersen, Mattias Skjelmose, and Michael Mørkøv. Representing his country on the world's biggest stage is a significant milestone in any athlete's career, and Bjerg's selection reflects his standing as one of Denmark's top cyclists. The Olympic Games offer a unique opportunity to showcase his talent and compete against the best riders from around the globe. The experience will undoubtedly be a valuable one, regardless of the outcome.

In July 2022, Rafal Majka, Brandon McNulty, Diego Ulissi, and Mikkel Bjerg extended their contracts with UAE Team Emirates, signaling the team's commitment to retaining key talent. These contract extensions reflect the team's confidence in their abilities and their importance to the overall team strategy. Bjerg's extension, in particular, underscores his value as a reliable and versatile rider who can contribute to both individual and team goals.

His role extends beyond just assisting Pogačar. He's also involved in guiding and protecting other team members. As classics specialists Nils Politt and Mikkel Bjerg lead the strong support squad, with both finishing third and fourth respectively in the race last season. The team values his insights and ability to adapt to various race conditions.

Despite his numerous achievements, Bjerg has also faced setbacks. During the PostNord Danmark Rundt, he crashed on stage 3 due to a slippery turn and had to withdraw from the race. This incident underscored the inherent risks of professional cycling and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the disappointment of having to abandon the race, Bjerg remained focused on his recovery and future goals.

However, he has demonstrated resilience. Following a stage 4 time trial at the Critérium du Dauphiné, Mikkel Bjerg of UAE Team Emirates not only clinched the stage victory but also claimed the yellow jersey. This victory was particularly significant for Bjerg, who described it as an emotional moment. He expressed relief at finally achieving his first professional win, highlighting the dedication and hard work that had gone into reaching that point. The win also served as a testament to his abilities as a time trial specialist and his potential to compete for individual honors.

Bjerg's physical attributes also play a significant role in his performance. Weighing approximately 80 kilograms, he possesses the strength and power necessary to excel in time trials and support his team on challenging terrain. His physical build, combined with his technical skills and tactical awareness, makes him a formidable competitor in any race.

The news of Mikkel Bjerg and Vegard Stake Laengen controlling the race for UAE Team Emirates, while Adam Yates maintained the yellow jersey and Pogačar climbed to second, further illustrates Bjerg's impact on the team's performance. His ability to control the pace and protect his teammates is crucial for achieving success in major stage races. This control allows the team to dictate the tempo of the race and conserve energy for critical moments.

Mikkel Bjerg's journey from a young, aspiring cyclist in Copenhagen to a key member of UAE Team Emirates is a story of dedication, perseverance, and exceptional talent. His achievements, both individually and as a team player, have solidified his place as one of the most promising cyclists of his generation. As he continues to develop his skills and contribute to the success of his team, Mikkel Bjerg is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of professional cycling. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring cyclists around the world, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

Looking ahead, Mikkel Bjerg's career trajectory suggests that he has the potential to achieve even greater success. With his combination of physical strength, technical skills, and tactical awareness, he is well-positioned to compete for individual honors and contribute to the success of UAE Team Emirates. As he continues to gain experience and develop his skills, he will undoubtedly become an even more valuable asset to his team and a formidable competitor in the world of professional cycling.

The nuances of language also add an interesting layer to Bjerg's international presence. While his name is pronounced with a distinct Scandinavian flair, the English rendition attempts to capture the essence of his identity for a global audience. This highlights the challenges and adaptations that come with being a professional athlete in a globalized sport.

The UAE Team Emirates has found in Mikkel Bjerg not just a cyclist, but a linchpin capable of turning the tide in critical races. He's more than just a time trial specialist; he's a strategic asset. Whether it's pacing Tadej Pogačar up a grueling mountain or contesting for his own glory in a time trial, Bjerg embodies the spirit of modern cycling - a blend of raw power and tactical brilliance.

In conclusion, Mikkel Bjerg's career is a fascinating study in the making of a modern cycling champion. He is not just a rider but a strategic component in one of the world's leading cycling teams. His journey, marked by both triumph and tribulation, continues to unfold, promising more excitement and achievements in the years to come.