"Seeing my mother win was a huge inspiration for me" - Bogdan Zabelinskiy, son of Olga, joins Soudal - Quick-Step Devo Team

A rather unusual signing for Soudal - Quick-Step Devo Team was announced on Wednesday. A Cyprian rider in Wolfpack? Yes and no. Bogdan Zabelinskiy is son of Olga Zabelinskiy, Olympic silver medalist against the clock, among other successes. After the 19-year-old talent represented Russia and briefly Uzbekistan in 2023, he now gained Cyprian citizenship.

"It was my childhood dream to become a cyclist, and seeing my mother compete in so many races and win was a huge inspiration for me," Zabelinskiy begins in team's press release.

"Saying I am happy to join this team would be an understatement. I’ve always admired the Wolfpack, and being a rider who likes the Classics and the time trials I feel I have made the best decision to ride for the Soudal Quick-Step Devo Team this year. I’m looking forward to developing in this strong environment and to enjoying racing as much as possible," said Zabelinskiy.

Devo Team Manager Bart Roosens reflected on the signing of Zabelinskiy: "We are very pleased to have Bogdan on the team. He is very strong and his results from physical tests are positive. Both his parents used to be good cyclists, so if he got the genes of them, we will see a nice future in cycling."