Investigation into Picnic PostNL allegations will be launched: 'A culture of fear or dictatorship'

The NOS [Nederlandse Omroep Stichting (Dutch Broadcasting Foundation)], in collaboration with the podcast “In de Waaier” has revealed that a culture of fear prevailed at the team for years.

More than 70 anonymous interviewees spoke out about their experiences. Martijn Tusveld is one of the people who is stepping forward.

The now 33-year-old Dutchman rode for Sunweb, DSM, and dsm-firmenich PostNL between 2019 and 2024—all predecessors of Picnic PostNL.

In an official statement, the team said, "We have taken note of the articles published by NOS Sport and In de Waaierabout Team Picnic PostNL."

"The stories of the (former) riders and (former) staff members quoted in those articles have touched us. At the same time, we do not recognise ourselves in the overall picture painted in the reports,” the team said.

"The fact that experiences vary does not detract from the seriousness of the stories that are now coming to light. That is why we will commission an independent investigation into how the team culture is experienced in practice and to what extent it aligns with the culture we strive to foster."

Following the response, the team confirmed they would commission an investigation into the team culture.

In response to the accusations, the Dutch Cycling Union (KNWU) has also released a statement, agreeing with the need for the team's investigation.

"The signals emerging in the reporting regarding cycling team Picnic-PostNL are very concerning. The experiences described by riders and staff members affect us and must be taken seriously. The situations described have a major impact on those involved, and they must be able to count on appropriate support," said Wouter Bos, Chairman of the Supervisory Board.

"Within Picnic-PostNL, a thorough investigation is needed into how this situation could have arisen and what steps are required to prevent a recurrence."

"As the KNWU, we stand for a cycling sport in which everyone should be able to participate in sports and work freely, enjoyably, and safely. We call upon everyone to report to the hotline in the event of transgressive behaviour, abuse of power, or an unsafe situation. Following this reporting and possible reports, the KNWU is investigating whether, and if so, what further steps are necessary."