More Danes, more joy: Mads Pedersen makes Lidl-Trek a family business with new addition to the team

Lidl–Trek takes a giant leap in its Grand Tour ambitions with the arrival of Juan Ayuso. The German-American squad hopes this will help them contend for overall honours in the biggest stage races, while still boasting a world-class classics leader in Mads Pedersen. The core surrounding the Dane has now been strengthened once again — through a very special connection.

With the signings of Max Walscheid and Mathias Norsgaard, the team has added two key domestiques for the former world champion. That does, however, come at the cost of losing Alex Kirsch, Ryan Gibbons, Jasper Stuyven and Daan Hoole. The next new face for the team isn’t a rider, but a reinforcement for the performance staff.

There, Claus Pedersen will make the move from the continental team Airtox–Carl Ras. That surname is no coincidence — he is the father of the Danish superstar. He becomes the second family member to join Lidl–Trek, as Martin Pedersen, Mads’ younger brother, has already been part of the development squad for some time.

From January onwards, Lidl–Trek will have a third Pedersen in its ranks. Airtox–Carl Ras said goodbye to their long-time staff member on social media. “He had a huge range of responsibilities and was excellent at handling both big and small tasks,” said the Danish outfit. “Claus has looked after the team with great passion and craftsmanship – always searching for the best possible solutions. For the boys. And for the team.”

With the arrival of Pedersen senior, the Danish enclave at Lidl–Trek continues to grow. Alongside Pedersen junior, the roster now features Søren Kragh Andersen, Mathias Norsgaard, Mattias Skjelmose and Albert Withen Philipsen, while Sebastian and Kim Andersen hold roles on the sporting staff. In the development squad, Martin Pedersen, Patrick Frydkjaer and Kristian Egholm continue to fly the Danish flag.