Lorena Wiebes joins Team Sunweb
The World number one ranked rider and Dutch champion Lorena Wiebes has officially announced that she has joined Team Sunweb’s Women’s program from the 1st of June, signing a four-year contract with the team until the end of 2024.
“I’m really motivated to be a part of Team Sunweb to grow together and continue my development as a rider,” explained Wiebes. “This is a very professional top sports environment for me to do that and I’m confident that the people around me will help bring me to the next level. I’m looking forward to getting back to racing when it is safe for everyone to do so and making my first appearance for the team. Knowing that day will come keeps me motivated to train during these unusual and challenging times.”
Team Sunweb coach Hans Timmermans added: “Lorena is one of the most up and coming riders of her generation and she helps take our Women’s program to the next level. When she made the transition from juniors up to the elite-level she made a huge step in her development and her sprint talents brought her immediate success. She’s also continued to make progress in the classics which gives us confidence that she will be a key-rider for us as she develops. Lorena is only 21 years old and will still take time to grow as a rider; we are looking forward to being there to support her in that progression in the coming years.”
Wiebes started with Parkhotel Valkenburg in 2018 but had a breakout year in 2019, becoming the #1-ranked rider in the women’s peloton. In November it was revealed she was looking to leave the second-tier Parkhotel Valkenburg squad to join a WorldTour outfit in 2020. A legal dispute between Wiebes and the team ensued but was reportedly settled out of court.
“Although it is unfortunate to see a rider leave after many successes together, if the match is not there anymore, it is time to move on,” said Parkhotel Valkenburg manager Esra Tromp in an announcement over the weekend. “We are thankful for the years with Lorena and we wish her all the best for the future.”
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