Decathlon announce signing of Olav Kooij from Visma: “We share great ambition”

Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale Team have confirmed the signing of Dutch sprinter Olav Kooij from Team Visma | Lease a Bike, with the move set for the 2026 season. Kooij, one of the brightest young finishers in the peloton, will begin a new chapter after five years with the Dutch powerhouse. The talented rider has agreed to a three-year contract with his new team, which will rebrand next season as Decathlon CMA CGM.

Kooij expressed his excitement about the move in the team’s official announcement. “I am really looking forward to join Decathlon CMA CGM in 2026 and a new chapter in my career. I look forward to start working together with the team on future goals and new challenges. We share great ambition to perform on the highest level which hopefully adds to many more victories in the coming years,” he said.

During his time at Visma, Kooij developed into one of the sport’s most reliable sprinters, collecting wins across multiple stage races. His palmarès includes three Giro d’Italia stage victories, along with a dominant showing at last week’s Tour of Britain, where he sprinted to three stage wins. The consistency of his results at just 23 has made him a valuable signing for Decathlon, who are building a roster capable of competing at the top level in both Grand Tours and classics.

The team’s recruitment drive has been aggressive in recent weeks. Earlier this week, it was revealed that experienced Belgian rider Tiesj Benoot and rising American talent Matthew Riccitello will also be joining Decathlon CMA CGM. Together with Kooij, the new arrivals signal a clear ambition to strengthen across multiple races, pairing proven leaders with promising younger riders.