In 2024, Chad Haga made a bold career shift from professional road cycling to gravel racing. After retiring from the road after a 12-year career, Haga quickly found success in off-road events. With seven top-five finishes in his debut year, including a second-place at Unbound Gravel 200 and third at The Traka 360, he proved that his transition was not just a retirement hobby but a serious commitment. Now, Haga is taking on an even greater challenge by moving into a full privateer setup for the upcoming season. Despite setbacks like a broken arm, he remains determined to explore new territories and embrace the adventure of gravel racing.

Haga's Journey from Road Pro to Gravel Pioneer

In the golden autumn of 2024, Chad Haga, a native Texan, embarked on a transformative journey from the paved roads to the rugged trails of gravel racing. After concluding his 12-year tenure with Human Powered Health ProTeam, Haga joined PAS Normal Racing’s off-road division. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, securing multiple top finishes in major events. The highlight came when he placed second at Unbound Gravel 200, demonstrating his genuine passion for the sport.

As Haga prepared for the next chapter, he faced an unexpected setback—a broken arm sustained during a training ride in Spain. Despite this challenge, he remained resilient, returning to training just 15 days post-surgery. Haga decided to take on the role of a privateer in 2025, managing all aspects of his racing logistics independently. This decision was driven by both personal ambition and economic considerations, as he sought to maximize sponsorship opportunities while maintaining his competitive edge.

Haga acknowledged the challenges of racing without team support, especially as gravel racing becomes increasingly team-oriented. However, he viewed this as an opportunity to grow and explore new horizons. “I’m excited about the adventure of racing in new places and experiencing different cultures,” he said, emphasizing his intrinsic motivation to push his limits.

A New Chapter Awaits

From a journalist's perspective, Chad Haga’s story serves as an inspiring testament to resilience and adaptability. His willingness to embrace change and take on new challenges, even in the face of adversity, is a powerful reminder that success often lies beyond one's comfort zone. Haga’s transition from a seasoned road cyclist to a gravel pioneer highlights the importance of continuous learning and self-discovery in sports. As he embarks on this new journey, Haga’s story encourages athletes and enthusiasts alike to explore uncharted territories and redefine their own limits.