Tom Boonen about the success of Patrick Lefevere's Wolfpack: "He could bring the right people together. The atmosphere was truly family-like"

Not many got to know Patrick Lefevere as well as Tom Boonen who spent 15 years racing under his guidance. To him, the news that Lefevere stepped down as a CEO of Soudal - Quick-Step therefore didn't come as much of a shock.

"There's a time for everything, right? No, I'm not really that surprised," Boonen said on Sporza about Lefevere's departure. After more than 40 years in the executive roles, Boonen understands Lefevere's desire to seek new things.

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Lefevere had dinner with Boonen and some intimates 2 weeks ago. He could already read the plans between the lines. "Patrick told me that he didn't have much say in the team anymore. He's also turning 70. If he wants to enjoy life a little longer, then the time has come. That doesn't mean he's going to just walk off and play golf. He's going to be bored, but everything has been a challenge."

"Certainly last year, with the merger and all the bombs. They were able to keep a lot internal, but it wasn't pleasant. He got through that too, but I think he's had enough of it and has given enough to the sport. It's time to rest a bit, if he feels like it. These are big shoes to fill, but I have the impression the team is doing well."

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A top manager, says Boonen about the outgoing CEO. "He could bring the right people together. The team members he brought together could get along. We are one of the few teams that have scored with different leaders. I have rarely been the only leader and he made that work."

"He is the family man of the team, someone who drove with a firm hand, but who also provided sufficient warmth and conviviality. The atmosphere was truly family-like. I am very grateful that I was able to ride there for all those years."

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