"My goal is to really become the best Zimmermann possible": German all-rounder signs three-year deal with Lidl-Trek
CyclingTuesday, 08 September 2026 at 01:00
Georg Zimmermann has officially confirmed the next major step in his career, with the German rider joining Lidl-Trek on a three-year contract. The move had been expected for some time, but the American WorldTeam has now formally announced the arrival of the former German road champion.
The 28-year-old has spent the first seven years of his professional career with CCC and Lotto-Intermarché, establishing himself as a versatile rider. His ability to attack, survive difficult terrain and perform in demanding stage races has now earned him a move to one of the sport’s biggest teams.
Zimmermann heads to Lidl-Trek after the most significant victory of his career so far. In May, he won Eschborn-Frankfurt on home roads, adding another major result to a palmarès that already includes victories in the Tour de l’Ain, Critérium du Dauphiné, Giro d’Abruzzo and the German road race championships.
The 28-year-old believes joining Lidl-Trek can help him unlock another level, particularly because of the way a leading WorldTeam approaches racing.
Tom Pidcock, Georg Zimmermann and Ben Tulett on the podium at Eschborn-Frankfurt 2026
Zimmermann expects a completely different way of racing
“First of all, I’m really excited to join Lidl-Trek,” Zimmermann said. “The first seven years of my career I was riding in a smaller World Tour team and now making this step to one of the major World Tour teams is a goal that I was looking forward to for a long time.”
At Lidl-Trek, he expects to be part of a team capable of taking control of races itself. “I think the biggest change that I’m looking forward to is that the tactics will change a little bit. The last years we were mostly looking to what the others were doing and adapting to this, but the big teams like Lidl-Trek are actively involved in making the race.”
That change could suit Zimmermann particularly well. The German has built his reputation around an aggressive racing style, regularly putting himself into breakaways and attacking when opportunities arise. He will also reunite with several familiar faces after making the move.
“I already know a lot of people in the team from the past that I’m looking forward to working together with,” he said. “Dr Daniele Zaccaria was a doctor in the first year I was professional and I had a really good time with him. Lennard Kämna is also a rider I’m looking forward to racing with.”
His next objective is to become a more consistent rider. “My goal for the time of my contract is to really become the best Georg Zimmermann possible, with the best support,” he said. “Like, working with the best coaches on the best equipment and with the best nutritionist and so on.”
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Lidl-Trek sees further development potential
Lidl-Trek general manager Andy Schleck is equally convinced that the German still has another step to take. “Over the past six years in the WorldTour peloton, we’ve had the privilege of watching Georg grow into the talented and versatile rider he is today,” Schleck said.
“His attitude, determination and fearless style of racing have made a lasting impression on all of us, while delivering some truly memorable moments and special victories along the way.”
Schleck stressed that Lidl-Trek believes the German can continue improving. “Most recently he showed his capabilities with victory at this year’s Eschborn-Frankfurt but, we think there is still room for Georg to grow as a rider at Lidl-Trek.”
Félix SernaCycling Journalist
Félix Serna is a writer at CyclingUpToDate and has been part of the team since 2025. He covers professional cycling across both the men’s and women’s calendars, with a focus on UCI rankings, race developments, and rider performance. His work includes interview-based reports, liveblogs, and tournament coverage designed to provide clear, accurate context throughout the season.
In his reporting, Félix regularly uses ProCyclingStats for results, statistics, and historical reference. He places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. He holds a bachelor’s degree in International Studies.
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