"It’s unfortunate that we part ways, but we came to a mutual agreement" - Lotto Dstny speak out on Maxim van Gils departure

Maxim van Gils has now officially departed the Lotto Dstny team after an agreement between all parties was reached to end his contract prematurely, allowing the prospect to explore options elsewhere. Despite the controversy in the manner of Van Gils exit, there seems to be little ill-will from Lotto Dstny.

“Maxim came into our team as a young talent, he’s one of the great examples of our DNA to give chances to young riders and help them grow into the best possible rider. With the help and guidance of the team, he made the step to the pro peloton in 2021 and proved to be a golden talent and we look back with a good feeling on the story we wrote together," reflects Stéphane Heulot, CEO of Lotto Dstny to the team's official website. "Over the past years, we have made it our mission to provide young talents with a home where they can grow and build their careers with the utmost professionalism. When they eventually spread their wings, it is something we can truly be proud of.”

“Today it’s unfortunate that we part ways, but we came to a mutual agreement with Maxim and his management A&J All Sports and I’m happy that now we can close this case," Heulot continues. "If this change makes him happier and helps him to continue growing, we won’t stand in his way. We will keep on searching for young talents and guiding them, as is one of the values of the team.”

The post of Lotto Dstny's team site also includes a departing message from Van Gils himself. “Seven years is quite a long time, I have so many beautiful memories with the team. I’m super grateful that Lotto Dstny gave me the chance as one of their U23 riders to turn professional. It’s because of this team and its sponsors that I could grow and take the steps towards the rider I am today," he says. "I will always look back to this period with a big smile, even though next year I’ll be riding in a different jersey I will never forget my second family that Lotto Dstny was.”

Although there is yet to be any official confirmation of where his future lies, it's been widely reported this morning that Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe have won the race to sign the Belgian talent.