Sprint legend Marcel Kittel is now central to Unibet Rose Rocket's Tour de France bid: 'We showed what we’re capable of'

Surprisingly, Kittel was announced as the sprint coach for Bas Tietema’s team after Groenewegen had already made the move. The German helped the team achieve outstanding results, such as the team’s first WorldTour victory at the Tour of Bruges. And the former pro sprinter was there more often than not.

"If you look at the practical implementation of what we wanted to achieve in the sprints, it means you have to develop a structure around it," he tells Domestique.

“Instead of just being theoretical, you have to be right there in the car. It was more hands-on than we’d initially imagined, but I’m certainly not complaining. Because the races are where the magic happens, and where emotions run high. I love it.”

The videos of Kittel in the team car have gone quite viral on the Rockets’ social media channels over the past year. The German clearly has a passion for the project. In the Tour of Bruges, which Groenewegen won, lead-out man Karsten Feldmann told him to keep quiet. It’s a great example of how the teamwork works. That communication is crucial, and it’s also the most important area for Kittel to work on.

"What I want to focus on now is how we communicate as a team—before, during, and after the race," said the German. "There’s always a detailed plan, but the reality is: how do we actually execute it during the race? That also requires a certain vision—how you want to work together during a race—and how you always have to leave room for the unexpected during a race."

Huge strides have already been made, but the Rockets want to aim even higher. “In 2026, our focus was on making sure we’d be in the finals, so we needed a solid plan, good communication, and flexibility. We wanted to build the most versatile sprint train, because that’s what you need in a final. And it was a good first step this year.”

The highlight for the Unibet Rose Rockets was the Giro d’Italia, their debut in a Grand Tour. There, Groenewegen fought for the stage win several times, but in the end, it wasn’t to be. Nevertheless, it was a crucial learning experience. “In the Giro, we had the opportunity to learn what it all entails, both as a team and as an organisation. And even though we didn’t win in the end, we showed what we’re capable of. I think we can be very happy and proud of that.”

After their first three-week race, the Rockets are already looking ahead. They finished 22nd in the UCI rankings and are in a better position than ever in the Wildcard standings. A spot in the Tour de France is never guaranteed, but Kittel and his teammates are certainly hoping to be there next year. With an eye toward La Grande Boucle , the German is determined to be in top form this spring.

"It has always been our dream as a team to compete in the Tour de France, but we know that a spot isn't just handed to you. You have to earn it. We need to make sure we take the next step and work hard for the upcoming season so we’re ready and can show our best side. That’s what matters most.”