One of the most experienced riders in the peloton, the Dutchman is ready to make his Soudal Quick-Step debut and contribute to the team’s success.
A true cobble-basher, Dylan Van Baarle has an eye-catching track record in the one-day races of the last decade, that only underlines his consistency and durability.
In 2022, he won Paris-Roubaix after a sensational solo ride, just one year after another impressive success, at Dwars door Vlaanderen. A victory that came following a bold attack in the last 17 kilometers of the 2023 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, as well as runner-up spots at the World Championships in Leuven and the Ronde van Vlaanderen, complete a remarkable palmares for the Dutchman, who has now embarked on a new journey.
At 33 years of age, Van Baarle signed a contract with our team until the end of 2027, and he hopes that after a few difficult years, he will come back to his best and play an important role in the northern cobbles.
“The two training camps went really well. It was nice to get to know everyone, from the staff to the riders. It’s a great group of riders and this gave me a good feeling. I can’t wait for my first race, Algarve, because it makes me excited to finally start in these colours. I’m also looking forward to the Opening Weekend, which will be special in a Belgian team. We have a strong line-up and we can be protagonists there. Of course, it’s always easier said than done, but we are confident, because we have many riders who have shown they can fight for a good result on the cobbles.”
His ambitions for year one with the Wolfpack go beyond the Opening Weekend. The two cobbled Monuments are high on his list, but Dylan – a versatile rider – is determined to help the team also in stage races and Grand Tours.
Flanders and Roubaix will be my main goals.
“I hope to get back to my best level for these two Monuments. I love them, they hold a special place in my heart and I would love to be in the mix for a good result or contribute to the team’s success”, said the former Dutch Champion. “I look forward also to being there for the squad whenever they need me in the stage races, because we have many riders that can shine in this type of races, regardless of the terrain. Hopefully, it will be a good year for us.”
Photo credit: ©Wout Beel
