The Soudal Quick-Step cycling team has officially announced its roster for the 2025 season, which will feature 30 riders ready to take on new challenges. Despite the departure of star rider Julian Alaphilippe, the team insists it remains competitive as it gears up for another thrilling year on the cycling circuit.
This season marks significant changes for the Wolfpack, as Alaphilippe will now don the colors of Tudor Pro Cycling, and fellow rider Kasper Asgreen is set to race for EF Education-EasyPost. Both of these athletes have been pivotal in establishing the team's reputation over the years, and their absence will leave considerable gaps.
“Despite the departure of Julian Alaphilippe, the team remains competitive,” stated team officials, emphasizing their confidence moving forward. They have worked diligently behind the scenes to attract fresh talent as they prepare for upcoming races.
Among the new recruits are seasoned riders such as Maximilian Schachmann, who returns after time spent with Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe, and Ethan Hayter, formerly of INEOS Grenadiers. Also joining the ranks is French talent Valentin Paret-Peintre from Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale. These additions are expected to bolster the team's performance across various competitions.
Alongside experienced riders, Soudal Quick-Step is also investing in youth, with promising talents such as Gianmarco Garofoli and Andrea Raccagni entering the fold. Team manager Patrick Lefevere has expressed enthusiasm about the squad’s new dynamic, highlighting its potential to make significant strides this year.
Veteran riders like Dries Van Gestel and Pascal Eenkhoorn are also set to contribute their experience to the team, providing a blend of youth and seasoned expertise necessary for competition at the highest levels.
The Soudal Quick-Step squad embodies the philosophy of adaptation and resilience, committed to remaining at the forefront of the sport amid transitions. A diverse mix of strategy, talent, and experience is seen as key to overcoming the challenges presented by the departures.
The team, managed by Jurgen Foré, is preparing for the racing calendar with excitement, as they sharpen their strategies for the upcoming season. The roster aims to not only fill the void left by top outgoing riders but also to exceed previous achievements.
With the departure of star athletes, it’s natural to question how their absence will shape the team. Yet, the infusion of new talent and the retention of key riders suggest Soudal Quick-Step is ready to forge its path forward, adapting to the ever-evolving demands of professional cycling.
2025 promises to be another exciting chapter for Soudal Quick-Step. The team is determined to build on its legacy—one victorious race at a time. With both youthful exuberance and experienced hands at the helm, the Wolfpack is poised to tackle the season with renewed focus and determination.
“We have good new talent,” Lefevere affirmed, reinforcing the strategic vision for the upcoming racing year. The team's core objective remains: to assert its presence within the competitive cycling frame. Each race will contribute to this chapter, reflecting the team's evolution amid the twists and turns of professional cycling.
Fans can anticipate seeing how these roster changes translate on the road, as the Soudal Quick-Step team gears up to face its rivals with unwavering spirit and motivation. The blend of seasoned riders and promising newcomers ensures continual excitement, marking Soudal Quick-Step as one of the teams to watch closely during the 2025 cycling season.