Visma–Lease a Bike has bid farewell to one of its most respected and iconic riders, marking the end of an era for the Dutch cycling powerhouse. The team confirmed today that the long-serving rider, whose quiet strength and unshakeable loyalty have defined much of their recent success, will not return for the upcoming season. The announcement was made through an emotional message shared on the team’s official channels, where Visma paid tribute to his years of dedication and his vital role in supporting team leader Jonas Vingegaard during his Tour de France triumphs.
“You were a trusted teammate of Jonas — someone who gave everything for the team, every single day,” the statement read. “Your professionalism, selflessness, and strength in the hardest moments made you one of the most respected riders in the peloton. We thank you for your commitment, your spirit, and for being an essential part of our journey.”
The departure marks the end of a significant chapter for both the rider and the team. Having joined Visma during a period of transformation, he became an integral figure in shaping its identity as one of the world’s most dominant cycling outfits. Known for his tireless work on mountain stages and his ability to protect Vingegaard deep into the climbs, he earned the admiration of teammates and rivals alike. Often seen quietly pulling at the front of the peloton, he rarely sought the spotlight, instead dedicating his energy to ensuring the team’s success.
Team insiders describe his relationship with Vingegaard as one built on mutual respect and unwavering trust. During the Dane’s back-to-back Tour de France victories, he was often the first rider by Vingegaard’s side on the toughest slopes, setting the pace and shielding him from rivals. Those within the team say that his calm presence and consistency played a crucial role in the collective confidence that defined Visma’s grand tour dominance in recent years.
Messages of appreciation have poured in from across the cycling community since the news broke. Vingegaard himself shared a heartfelt note on social media, calling him “a true brother on and off the bike” and thanking him for years of friendship and dedication. “You made the hardest days easier, and I’ll never forget the work you did for me and for the team,” Vingegaard wrote. Other teammates and staff echoed similar sentiments, praising his humility and commitment to teamwork in a sport where personal sacrifice often goes unnoticed.
While the team did not specify the rider’s next move, reports suggest that he may either transition to a different WorldTour team or take on a new role within the cycling world, possibly in coaching or team development. Visma–Lease a Bike’s management expressed their gratitude not only for his athletic contributions but also for his leadership within the squad, describing him as “a rider who embodied everything our team stands for — resilience, teamwork, and respect.”
For fans, his departure is bittersweet. Many took to social media to share memories of his iconic moments — from heroic mountain pulls to quiet gestures of sportsmanship. He became a symbol of the team’s collective spirit, representing the kind of athlete who might not always win individual glory but whose impact is deeply felt in every victory the team achieves.
As Visma–Lease a Bike prepares for the next season with a mix of established stars and rising talents, his absence will undoubtedly be felt. Still, the legacy he leaves behind — one of loyalty, hard work, and quiet excellence — will continue to inspire those who ride in yellow and black. In the world of professional cycling, where teamwork often defines greatness, his farewell serves as a reminder that champions are not only those who cross the finish line first, but also those who make it possible for others to do so.
Leave a Reply