"I am convinced I can help Remco a lot" - Mikel Landa on move to Soudal - Quick-Step

Mikel Landa was expected to join Soudal - Quick-Step into 2024 and the transfer has now been confirmed. A pure Basque climber in the traditionally sprinter and classics-guided Belgian team will be an interesting sight, but it is a move that seemingly benefits everyone involved.

“I am very excited at the thought of joining Soudal Quick-Step, an incredible team I have always had a lot of respect for," Landa said in a press release issued by what will be his new team. "From the outside, I was always impressed by how its riders stick together in all kinds of situations and how they always support their leader. I have been so far on Italian teams, Spanish teams, and British teams, and now I’m looking forward to discovering the Belgian culture.”

He has been signed very clearly because of his climbing prowess. As Remco Evenepoel prepares to tackle new goals, including the Tour de France in 2024, it was imperative that the team would reinforce itself further to at least have some type of response against the likes of Jumbo-Visma and UAE Team Emirates, who are each announcing significant transfers that boost their climbing lineups even further.

Quick-Step has made a big move either, as Landa can prove to be a crucial right-hand man for the Belgian. “I am happy and motivated by this new challenge and by supporting Remco in his goals. I come here with a lot of experience, especially in the Grand Tours, where I’ve been fighting for the podium or have helped others win several times in the past. I have always felt comfortable supporting younger riders and I know I will fit in here."

"I want to give my best in the next seasons, I am convinced I can help Remco a lot, and at the same time, I am confident that when given the opportunity, I can go for a good result myself," he added. The 33-year old has in the past thrived in domestique roles for Astana and (at the time named) Team Sky, after a few years of leadership at Bahrain - Victorious he will have some pressure taken off his shoulders for the coming two seasons.

“We have known Mikel for a long time, he has been a constant presence at the front on the hard climbs of the Grand Tours since turning pro many years ago and we believe he is the right man to strengthen our squad as we gradually shift our attention to the general classification," Patrick Lefevere said. "We are looking forward to what we hope will be a strong and successful two seasons together.”