Soudal Quick-Step expands classics squad staff with Terpstra, Vanmarcke and Declercq: "Let's step on it!"

“These strategic moves are designed to provide the best possible support for our riders as we continue striving to remain one of the leading teams in professional cycling,” the announcement said. “This strengthens the Wolfpack's foundation for the future.”

With Vanmarcke and Terpstra, the WorldTour team gains two new team leaders who will be particularly valuable in the classics. “Niki stood on the top step of the podium 17 times in our colours, including victories at Ronde van Vlaanderen, Paris-Roubaix, E3 Harelbeke, and twice at Dwars door Vlaanderen. Niki is known for his race intelligence, will to win and straight talking - capabilities that we as a team value and foster.”

"Hailing from Kortrijk, 37-year-old Sep Vanmarcke enjoyed a distinguished career as a rider and brings a wealth of experience. Among his biggest results are victory at the 2012 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and 12 podium finishes in the cobbled classics. Sep will begin immediately in his role and will work with the team at several races from this September. Eliot Lietaer, who raced professionally for 11 years, will also join as a sports director and will focus on our Devo Team."

In an interview with NOS, Terpstra gave his first reaction to the announcement. “I didn't experience a black hole after my active career,” said Terpstra, who worked as an analyst for NOS after his cycling career. “Recently, I've been thinking about what I want to do next. Cycling still appeals to me and I have a good relationship with the team, so that's how the ball started rolling.”

The North Holland native rode for the Belgian team for no less than eight years. "I think it was the best time of my career. I'm really happy to be returning to this team." What does Terpstra hope to contribute? "In addition to communicating from the team car, I think I can use my racing experience outside of the races. I hope I can convey that well."

Following the departure of Remco Evenepoel, Soudal Quick-Step is building a team that will mainly have to prove itself in the classics. Dylan van Baarle (Visma | Lease a Bike) and Jasper Stuyven (Lidl-Trek) are among those who have already been signed. “Those are also the roots of the team, the spring classics. That's what makes every heart in the team beat faster. Now we have a lot of new riders joining us, who will ride harder in those spring classics. That's what we're going to build on.”

"Tim Declercq earned the nickname “El Tractor” during his time with the team thanks to his tireless work at the front of the peloton, setting the pace and controlling races for his teammates, as well as being one of the most popular personalities within the squad. Determined to move into coaching, Tim studied for a master’s degree in sports science during the latter years of his cycling career, gaining knowledge that he will now put into practice with the Wolfpack."

Michel Geerinck joins Declercq as coach. "Michel has built successful partnerships with several riders, including Jasper Stuyven, who will join the team next season. He will also support our satellite youth team, Avia Rudyco. Dimitri Peyskens, a professional rider for 10 years before studying physical education, will also join as a coach. Dimitri will focus on training our U19 and U23 riders and guiding them as they transition towards the World Tour."

“We are delighted to welcome new faces and continue with our strongholds in the performance group” said Jurgen Foré, CEO of Soudal Quick-Step. “Each of them brings unique experience, insight and personality that will strengthen our team and provide invaluable support for our riders in their preparation and during the biggest races.”