18-year old talent, and current Junior World champion
Per Strand Hagenes was one of the signing for the
Jumbo-Visma development team this year, however the Dutch team have big ambitions for the Norwegian rider as they have renewed his contract until 2026, with Hagenes turning professional in 2024.
“This long-term contract allows me to develop in the same environment for a longer period. That is good for my development and gives me confidence. Hopefully I can continue to grow to be ready for the pro peloton in 2024. Progressing from the Development Team to the professional team at Team Jumbo-Visma is a great perspective. Since I’ve been here, I’ve noticed that this team suits me. My experiences in this environment have been outstanding and it is the perfect place to continue developing myself," Hagenes said in a team press release.
In his final Junior year he's not only taken the world title in Leuven, but has taken seven more wins at international level in the space of just four months. In 2022, he's won a stage and finished second in the overall classification of Le Triptyque des Monts et Châteaux.
“In addition, I like that I can continue to combine my school with top sport. That is very important to me and I am grateful to the team and my education that this combination can be made. I am happy to be part of Team Jumbo-Visma for the coming years," he added.
Team DS Merij Zeeman has expressed the same emotion regarding the new signing of the team, as he added: “Per is a special and talented cyclist. With this long-term programme, we express confidence in him... After great scouting work by the development team’s staff, Per’s development continues steadily. Our World Tour team currently houses several cycling stars, but we would like to develop a new generation of leaders ourselves. Per belongs to the group of riders who will have the opportunity to grow to that level. We take all the time we need for that so that he can continue to grow quietly within his potential.”