Arnaud De Lie embodies what Lotto-Intermarché stands for: developing homegrown talent and allowing young riders to grow at their own pace, in a familiar, family-oriented and professional environment, into the best possible version of themselves. Some talents stay for their entire careers, while others eventually spread their wings. And that is what De Lie will do at the end of this season.
Arnaud De Lie joined the Lotto-Soudal Development Team in 2021 from Crabbé Toitures-CC Chevigny Junior, with whom the team was working at the time to scout young riders. In his first season with us, De Lie immediately claimed six victories as well as a string of podium finishes. Under the guidance of the team, he made the step up to the professional peloton just one year later, at only 19 years of age, and quickly proved to be an exceptional talent. In his first year as a professional, he took nine victories, and over the following years he developed into one of the team’s absolute leaders and most recognisable faces.
Jean-François Bourlart, General manager of Lotto-Intermarché: “In his five seasons as a professional rider with our team, Arnaud De Lie delivered 35 victories for us. His Belgian national title in Zottegem, the overall victory at the Renewi Tour and the Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec are perhaps the most memorable, but there were also fantastic victories in Binche-Chimay-Binche, Denmark, the Tour de Wallonie, the Bretagne Classic… We look back very fondly on the story we have written together. It is a pity that our paths will now separate, but we can only be proud of everything we have achieved together so far. We are determined to make it a great end to the season together, and of course we wish him every success with whatever comes next.”
Arnaud De Lie: “Lotto-Intermarché is my first professional team and it always will be. It is the team where I grew up, learned and was given the confidence to become a professional rider. Together, we have experienced so many great moments, from my first professional victory at the Trofeo Palma to my Belgian national title. I am extremely grateful to everyone within the team for their help, support and trust over the past years. After this season, a new chapter begins for me, but Lotto-Intermarché will always remain an important part of my story.”
Until the end of the season, Arnaud De Lie and Lotto-Intermarché remain fully focused on their sporting goals together. The Renewi Tour will be next, followed by, among others, the Bretagne Classic and the Canadian races.
Picture: PhotoNews
