Structural changes and rumours of riders leaving at the end of the season haunt Lotto Soudal

Lotto Soudal are currently in a complicated position when it comes to maintaining their position in the World Tour, and within the team's very experienced structure there are clear signs of discontent. Valerie D’Haeze, who was said to be John Lelangue's right-hand, has resignated from the team after 17 years in the role of operations and administration manager. 

According to a report by Wielerflits, D'Haeze left after the addition of Yana Seel as the new chief business officer of the team for 2022. A spokesperson for the Belgian team said:  "...Of course, everyone is very sad to see her leave. She has been of great value for us, but we have to respect the decision she made and the fact that she wants to find a new opportunity." 

These news confirm the current complicated situation, and that pressure is significant due to the ongoing battle for UCI points in which the team has to recover a significant amount to be able to apply for a World Tour license for the coming three seasons.

According to the report, it is also rumoured that Tim Wellens may very well be on the way out. The 31-year old has been with Lotto Soudal ever since his pro debut in 2012, and has been for several years one of the main figures of the team, a specialist in classics, punchy races and breakaways - with a tally of 34 wins throughout his career. Although it is no surprise, taking into consideration the insecurity over the team's future - made worst by the sponsorship issues that have risen - it puts the Belgian team under further pressure to look for leaders.