With new appointments including Sep Vanmarcke, Niki Terpstra, Tim Declercq, and Michel Geerinck, alongside contract renewals for key staff, the Wolfpack strengthens its foundation for the future.
Soudal Quick-Step has bolstered its performance team with a series of new appointments and key contract renewals. These strategic moves are designed to provide the best possible support for our riders as we continue striving to remain one of the leading teams in professional cycling.
The new additions will see Sep Vanmarcke, Niki Terpstra and Eliot Lietaer join as sports directors, while Tim Declercq, Michel Geerinck and Dimitri Peyskens come on board as coaches.
Niki Terpstra and Tim Declercq need little introduction, having ridden a combined 15 seasons with the Wolfpack. Niki stood on the top step of the podium 17 times in our colours, including victories at Ronde van Vlaanderen, Paris-Roubaix, E3 Harelbeke, and twice at Dwars door Vlaanderen. Niki is known for his race intelligence, will to win and straight talking - capabilities that we as a team value and foster.
Tim Declercq earned the nickname “El Tractor” during his time with the team thanks to his tireless work at the front of the peloton, setting the pace and controlling races for his teammates, as well as being one of the most popular personalities within the squad. Determined to move into coaching, Tim studied for a master’s degree in sports science during the latter years of his cycling career, gaining knowledge that he will now put into practice with the Wolfpack.
Hailing from Kortrijk, 37-year-old Sep Vanmarcke enjoyed a distinguished career as a rider and brings a wealth of experience. Among his biggest results are victory at the 2012 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and 12 podium finishes in the cobbled classics. Sep will begin immediately in his role and will work with the team at several races from this September. Eliot Lietaer, who raced professionally for 11 years, will also join as a sports director and will focus on our Devo Team, which will be upgraded to a CP1 team next year and operate in a more integrated way with the World Tour squad.
Alongside Declercq, Michel Geerinck joins as a coach. Michel has built successful partnerships with several riders, including Jasper Stuyven, who will join the team next season. He will also support our satellite youth team, Avia Rudyco. Dimitri Peyskens, a professional rider for 10 years before studying physical education, will also join as a coach. Dimitri will focus on training our U19 and U23 riders and guiding them as they transition towards the World Tour.
The team has also secured the continued services of several key members of staff, renewing contracts across our support structure. These agreements provide continuity and a strong platform for our riders to maximise their potential as we pursue our goal of remaining one of the world’s best cycling teams. Renewals include Koen Pelgrim and Frederik Broché, who will lead our coaching department. Dr Philip Jansen continues as Head of Medical, while team doctor Toon Cruyt has extended his stay with the team. In the sports director group, Davide Bramati and Tom Steels have extended their contracts, with Wilfried Peeters continuing for at least one more year, and Kevin Hulsmans stepping more into the World Tour team whilst combining his role with the Devo Team.
Elsewhere, Nicolas Coosemans remains Head of Technical and Development, spearheading our work on equipment and performance. Manu Wemel continues, along with some therapists of his ‘SQUADT’-practice, supporting riders in physical wellbeing, while our nutrition department is being further strengthened. In communications, Phil Lowe continues to oversee media relations and strategy.
“We are delighted to welcome new faces and continue with our strongholds in the performance group. Each of them brings unique experience, insight and personality that will strengthen our team and provide invaluable support for our riders in their preparation and during the biggest races,” said Soudal Quick-Step CEO Jurgen Foré.
“At the same time, renewing the contracts of our key staff ensures continuity and stability. Their knowledge and commitment form the backbone of the Wolfpack. Together with the new arrivals, they give us the strongest possible platform to keep building towards future success. As a team, you win races with strong riders supported by an experienced and diverse performance staff. With these signings, we will continue to lead in performance, training, race tactics and the physical wellbeing of our riders.”
Photo credit: ©Wout Beel
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