"That is the vision of Sven Nys" - Baloise - Trek Lions quickly becoming 'the Wolfpack of the cross'

The cyclocross season of 2023/24 has been incredibly exciting so far, despite the lack of a few top stars. One team thriving more than any has been Sven Nys' Baloise - Trek Lions.

"We already had a stable base with experienced riders such as Lucinda Brand and Lars van der Haar, but in recent years we have also opted for young talent. That is the vision of Sven Nys," says trainer Paul Van Den Bosch in quotes collected by Sporza. "We have given them time to develop under the wings of established values."

This impressive team building has led to some beginning to call the team, 'the Wolfpack of the cross', in reference to the Soudal - Quick-Step team from the road. "We don't just go for talent, we also go for character. When we want to hire someone, we look at his personality and always check whether the person fits well into the group," Van Den Bosch explains. "Just to give an example: as a trainer I have never had any real problems with these riders. That says a lot. I dare say with my hand on my heart that they are all amiable people."

The likes of Pim Ronhaar, Thibau Nys and Lars van der Haar have all triumphed so far this campaign, and the Dutch national champion requires a special mention from Van Den Bosch. "His contribution to this team cannot be underestimated. He's our road captain," he says. "He is the bridge between all generations. Someone who shares his experience with the young people. And when they have a disappointing performance, he is the first to support them. A true leader."