Johannes Staune-Mittet on switching Visma for AG2R: "Every day I get signs that I made the right choice"

Nowadays there is a very strong rumour ongoing in the peloton that Team Visma | Lease a Bike's Tiesj Benoot is leaving towards Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale at the end of the season. Whilst it can be seen as a risky move, a rider who followed the exact same path last season is quite happy with the decision he made.

“I feel really good with my new team, with new challenges and more opportunities," Johannes Staune-Mittet shared with In de Leiderstrui before the start of the Tour de Romandie where he will be competing. "I feel privileged to be in this position. Every day I get signs that I made the right choice, so that’s pretty cool.”

For several years the Dutch team looked to develop the now 23-year old and turn him into one of the team's new leaders but it didn't quite work out, and last winter he made the switch with a surprising three-year deal with Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale. He has since finished eighth at the Vuelta a Andalucia as his highlight, but has been learning his way through a different team, roles, and obtaining experience after switching out of a structure he had been racing for years.

The plan is to turn him into a Grand Tour leader over the upcoming seasons, but already he feels the difference in his role within the team. “I just get more opportunities now, in the races I do, the support I get at training camps... It’s really cool. I’m happy. My goals? I just want to ride as hard as I can. If I’ve given everything by the end of a race week, that’s a win for me.”

Team DS Luke Roberts talked about his happiness and positivity regarding the Norwegian, and is really eager to help him improve into a true leader in the French team. “In 2024, we’re giving him the chance to get used to riding for GC as a leader, but he’ll also ride a Grand Tour in support of another team leader. He’ll take something away from every race, no matter what role he has. The expectations aren’t sky-high, but it’s great for him to already be taking steps in WorldTour races.”