Ladies Geert Wellens new sports director at Lotto Ladies Team

Geert Wellens, a former cyclocross rider himself, has previously gained experience as a sports director. This past winter, he worked alongside Zoe Bäckstedt in cyclocross and had already collaborated with several other teams. Over the past few days, Wellens has been in Altea, Spain, joining the Lotto Ladies on their training camp, where he completed his first days as the newly appointed sports director of the young team.

"I have known Lotto since I was young," says Geert Wellens. "I was already familiar with many people in the team and even joined them last season as a VIP driver. Through Lotto Cycling Team riders Arne Baers, Sterre Vervloet, and cyclocross, I also had frequent contact with the team. When I was asked to become a sports director, I saw it as a great opportunity. In winter, I will continue my work in cyclocross as before, but in the summer, I will be working with Lotto. Collaborating with young riders, helping Belgian and other talents develop, and guiding them as best as possible is something I truly enjoy."

"The Lotto Ladies Team is very young this season. The leading riders from last year have moved on, but that doesn't mean the women and girls should be any less motivated. It is our job, together with the coaches, to raise the level. I'm looking forward to that. Who is already at a high level? Who can improve in certain areas? At the same time, we have to remain realistic. The team has been selected for Paris-Roubaix, and last year they were at the start of the Tour de France Femmes, but it will not be an easy year to compete with the top teams in the WorldTour. We're starting with a blank slate, and now we can begin building. I am confident that everyone will give their best to stand out individually and as a team. Most importantly, everyone should continue to enjoy what they do. Focus and dedication are essential, but fun and motivation must always remain at the heart of it."

Picture: Brecht Steenhouwer