Two strong climbers set to leave Soudal - Quick-Step after this season

Patrick Lefevere doesn't hide his ambitions to fight for general classifications at Grand Tours with his crown jewel Remco Evenepoel. It could've been seen from both; the latest signings such as Mikel Landa, but also from departures of team's long-time leaders for spring classics, while the rest of the team is seriously struggling.

Thus the news brought by Gazzetta dello Sport on Saturday come as a bit of a surprise. The Italian newspaper first reported Fausto Masnada's move for Q36.5 Pro Cycling. And just an hour later, Gazzetta doubled up on the list of Soudal - Quick-Step departures with Jan Hirt also close to signing a deal with Israel - Premier Tech.

Masnada spent a little bit more than four years with the Belgian formation after jumping from the sinking boat of folding CCC at the end of 2020. Most memorable of Masnada's results at the Wolfpack will remain his second place at 2021 Lombardia, losing only to Tadej Pogacar then. The first post-covid season was the best in Italian's career, with a third place overall at Tour de Romandie also making the list of his achievements. In recent years, Masnada was a bit under the radar and thus his departure for Q36.5, who are lacking a big leader in the mountains, can be seen as a good move for both sides.

On the other hand losing Jan Hirt is a huge blow for Quick-Step's mountain lineup. The 33-year-old Czech was never regarded as a top domestique, but known for his pure climbing ability and consistent performances, he reached the final top 10 at Giro d'Italia in 2022 (6th) and 2024 (8th). Hirt's new destination Israel - Premier Tech is on the rise and finding an experienced leader could prove vital for the growth of promising youngsters like Matthew Riccitello (5th at Suisse) and Derek Gee (3rd at Dauphiné).