Lidl-Trek strengthens sprint and classics squad with another powerhouse

"Lidl-Trek is pleased to announce that German fast-man Max Walscheid has signed a three-year contract with the Team. The deal will see the 32-year-old wear Lidl-Trek’s red-blue-yellow through 2028," according to a statement. He is the third addition to the German-American team, which previously signed the tall Jakob Söderqvist (1.87 meters) and the giant Mathias Norgaard (2.02 meters).

With Walscheid, who is 1.99 meters tall, it has once again attracted a tall rider. The German is transferring from Jayco AlUla, where he signed in 2024. Before that, the Neuwied-born rider spent two years with the French team Cofidis.

“I had a great time at Team Jayco-AlUla in the last two years,” Walscheid himself explains. “I was lucky to meet and work with great people and of course to race successfully. Given the chance to ride for Lidl-Trek, one of the absolute top-tier WorldTeams, I didn’t hesitate for a moment.”

His role is therefore clear. “Lidl-Trek is ideally set up for classics and sprints — I’m ready to help Mads Pedersen and lead out Jonathan Milan, while also seeking my own chances when they arise. And I’m extremely motivated to give my all at Grand Tours, because we will have so many different ways to succeed.”

"I have seen the Team’s scientific approach, whether in sprint train development, the excellent material, or the team behind the team," the tall German continues. "This no-compromise attitude fits perfectly to my desire to optimize all aspects of my performance, and it brings out the best in everyone. I’m ready to contribute to writing Lidl-Trek’s winning story!"

General manager Luca Guercilena is also pleased. "Max is a strong engine and an experienced rider who can make a real difference in many situations. He brings both power and race intelligence, whether fitting into the sprint train, contributing in the cobbled classics, or reading a race in the hectic finals. Max is highly motivated to help our leaders succeed, and he can also win himself when the chance arises. We’re very pleased to welcome him to the Team."