Tim Declercq signs with Lidl - Trek - "I hope to be of value to Mads Pedersen in the classics and the Grand Tours"

Tim Declercq had been mentioned to be joining Lidl - Trek for months, and it has now been confirmed. The 'tractor' has been one of Soudal - Quick-Step's most valuable assets since 2017, but he now moves onto a different challenge.

“I think Lidl-Trek is a growing team with great values. They ride attractively and are stepping up their game every year. I’m super excited to join them," Declercq said in a press release. "It also looks like they are keen to start working more and more with a science-based approach and are open for innovation. With my background in physical education studies, I really look forward to working in that environment."

For several years Declercq had been a reliable domestique for the Belgian team for many years, both when it came to the cobbled classics and also working towards the team's sprinting ambitions. often enough, Declercq was the rider who spent long hours in the front of the peloton in the flat races where Quick-Step had contenders. “Of course it will be very strange to leave Quick Step after all those years. Some people of the staff and riders really became friends after all this time, and I’ve got some great moments together," he says of the separation.

"On the other hand, the last few years the team has also not been the same anymore and I really look forward to a new challenge. I know most of the Belgians quite well, and I think we will have a lot of fun during training camps. I also look forward to working for every rider the team wants me to, but for sure I hope to be of value to Mads Pedersen in the classics and the Grand Tours.”

In the American team he is expected to have the same role, however with a new set of leaders such as Mads Pedersen and Jonathan Milan. “We are thrilled to welcome Tim Declercq to our team. His remarkable dedication and exceptional skills make him the prototypical domestique," team manager Luca Guarcilena said.

"Tim has made a name for himself not because of his own results, but for his selfless spirit and willingness to give his all to the collective goal. For this reason, I believe Tim will be a valuable addition to our roster. We look forward to achieving great success as we take this new step together.”