After a great transfer period, Q36.5 has one last deal up its sleeve, completing its 2026 roster

The team announced Bennett's arrival “proud” in a statement. "This completes our 30-rider line-up as we head into an exciting new chapter for the team. " In addition to the Irishman, his compatriot Eddie Dunbar has also been signed from Jayco AlUla, while the English-speaking core around Pidock is set to grow with the additions of Thomas Gloag (Visma | Lease a Bike) and Fred Wright (Bahrain Victorious).

Apart from the above, Q36.5 has also managed to strengthen its classic core significantly. Aimé De Gendt joined from Cofidis, while Xandro Meurisse and Quinten Hermans transferred from Alpecin-Deceuninck, and Brent Van Moer came from Lotto. Acquisitions eight and nine were Chris Harper (Jayco AlUla) and Emmanuel Houcou (Arkéa), with Bennett being number ten and also the latest addition.

“It’s fantastic to be joining Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team next season,” said the Irishman when announcing his transfer. It feels like coming home for Bennett. “My career was launched by Kurt Bogaerts, so it feels as if I’ve taken a winding path home.”

The sprinter, who was born in Belgium, has had an extremely successful career so far, winning no fewer than 71 times. “As a sprinter, my career has been shaped by hunting for wins and I’ve been really fortunate to have been given lots of great opportunities to perform, and win, at all 3 Grand Tours.”

Bennett is therefore looking forward to pursuing new victories, which, after two years with Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale, will take place in a new environment. “By joining this team, not only do I sense an immense opportunity to perform at my best level but equally to guide younger riders to achieve great things within our sport.”

Bogaerts looks back on his previous encounters with his new signing. “We first were together on the An Post – Sean Kelly where he turned pro from our team after winning the stage in Caerphilly at the 2013 Tour of Britian. We remained in contact throughout his career and now we have the opportunity to add his winning experience to our Team.”

“He understands what it takes to win at the highest level and especially at Grand Tours,” the team boss explains the signing of the sprinter. “Sam gives us the chance to target high-profile victories and the consistency we strive for,” he says enthusiastically.

“I’ve watched the team grow and develop and accomplish great things already at the highest level and I’m excited to be a part of that. All my gratitude to Doug Ryder and Kurt for this opportunit,” says Bennett expressing his gratitude.