Lotto-Intermarché bring in a rider with a deep résumé and experience in the biggest races. In recent seasons, Molano has shown he can prevail in fast finishes and compete at the highest level.
Juan Sebastián Molano, one of the peloton’s leading sprinters
A new landscape for the Colombian
His victories include Brugge-De Panne, Grand Prix de Denain, and multiple stage wins at both the Vuelta a España and the UAE Tour. The Colombian also arrives after winning Brugge-De Panne last season.
His new team aim to revive exactly that version of the rider. At Lotto-Intermarché he will have greater freedom to seek his own opportunities and resume the role of lead sprinter.
“Here I’ll be a pure sprinter again, and I can’t wait,” Molano says.
The move also means discovering a new cycling culture after spending virtually his entire career in the same setup. Molano says he has always felt a special bond with Belgian cycling and is especially drawn to racing some of its marquee events.
“I still remember when my current teammate, Tim Wellens, raced in Lotto colours. As a kid, André Greipel was one of my big idols. I love Lotto-Intermarché and I’m very happy to wear that jersey soon,” he explains.
The Colombian also hopes to enjoy races like Brugge-De Panne or Nokere, where the atmosphere around the event carries real weight.
“I’m also very curious to experience what it’s like to race for a Belgian team. Belgians are passionate about cycling (laughs). Races like Brugge-De Panne, Nokere… where everyone gives everything, not only the riders but also the fans along the route… It seems incredible to me.”
The Tour de France, a motivation
Among the goals Molano sets for this new chapter is a challenge he has yet to tick off: starting the Tour de France. The Colombian has never ridden the French Grand Tour and hopes his move to Lotto-Intermarché can open that door.
“I also dream of the Tour de France, which I’ve never raced. It will be a great motivation for me. I want to give everything to be in my best shape throughout the season and be ready for the Tour,” he says.
Lotto-Intermarché believe the change can help Molano rediscover his core strengths. Jean-François Bourlart, the team’s general manager, highlights his speed and his savvy in decisive moments: “Sebastián is a rider who fits perfectly with what we want to add to our team. He has exceptional speed, but also the experience to position himself in key moments and finish off a race.”
“He has competed at the highest level in recent years and knows what it takes to win. With us, he’ll have the freedom to pursue his own chances again,” Bourlart adds.
Thus, Molano will begin a new phase in 2027 after eight years with UAE, on a two-year contract and with a much more defined role at Lotto-Intermarché. The aim will be to recover his best version and raise his arms again in a team committed to giving him the right conditions to do so.