Mass exodus at Visma? "Bahrain Victorious looking to snatch another key Visma | LaB rider, in addition to Lotto talent"

Looking ahead to their 2026 lineup, Bahrain currently has around 20 riders confirmed. With names like Lenny Martinez, Antonio Tiberi, Pello Bilbao, Santiago Buitrago and Phil Bauhaus, they’ve built a well-rounded squad. However, it looks like they still lack a top-tier sprinter. However, according to Benson, Bahrain Victorious isn’t planning to sign a new sprinter for next year, though the team is closely monitoring its options.

Matej Mohoric has not yet officially extended his contract, but Benson claims the deal has already been done. Meanwhile, Damiano Caruso has signed an extension, pushing the team closer to the maximum roster size of 30 riders. Those remaining few spots appear to be reserved for new signings, and Bahrain is reportedly looking to do some shopping at Visma | Lease a Bike and Lotto…

According to Benson, "Insiders within the team have told us that Alec Segaert would be a valuable addition." If the deal goes through, Alec would be teaming up with his 26-year-old brother Loïc Segaert, who is currently a sports director at Bahrain Victorious. According to Benson, Alec could be the team's annual long-term signing. A role that last year went to Lenny Martinez.

The other potential transfer target is Attila Valter. The Hungarian rider was left out of Visma | Lease a Bike’s Giro d’Italia squad and is also not selected for the Tour de France. According to Benson, "the transfer hasn’t been confirmed yet, but it’s definitely one to watch in August when the transfer window opens."

If Valter does move, he would be yet another rider leaving Visma | Lease a Bike at the end of this season. The widely reported move of Dutchman Olav Kooij to Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale seems to be growing more concrete, and now Tiesj Benoot is rumored to be following his teammate to the French team as well. All signs point towards a small exodus at Visma.