If van Aert can do it, so can Pedersen: Lidl–Trek star drops big news in hilarious video

No popping champagne bottles or an expensive tailor-made suit to announce the news, just a carton of chocolate milk that Pedersen is sipping from. "I have a new headline for you: I'm staying with Lidl-Trek until my career is over." The way he empties his carton and throws it on the table with a cool look makes everyone smile.

A contract for life is a relatively new thing in cycling. Wout van Aert was the first to sign one with Visma | Lease a Bike, but if the Belgian can do it, so can Pedersen. The two have been competing against each other in almost all the classics and sprints lately. And Pedersen even has the upper hand in 2025. He is riding in the pink jersey in this Giro and has already won two stages.

In the accompanying press release from Lidl-Trek, the familiar texts are repeated. Pedersen turned professional with Lidl-Trek in 2017 and will never wear other colors in the WorldTour. With 52 victories already to his name, it has proved to be a match made in heaven. "Taking the decision to stay with Lidl-Trek for the remainder of my career was for me quite easy, actually. Since I joined in 2017, I always felt super welcome and supported by everyone here."

Pedersen is proud to have a contract for life and is hungry for the years to come. "My hope for my next years of my career is for sure to win this Monument I keep fighting for, and I really believe, with the support from this team, it will be possible. I want to win as much as possible, but at the same time I want to be a good leader and try to help new riders who are on the way up." General manager Luca Guercilena says: "Seeing Mads grow into the rider he is today has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. From day one, it was clear that he was special. He’s not just a phenomenal talent on the bike; he’s also a leader who inspires those around him. You can see it when he races."