It appears that Soudal Quick-Step is facing an uncertain future with the possibility of dissolution at the end of the 2023 season. However, there are rumors that Patrick Lefevere is working on creating a new team to accommodate the riders and staff who may be left without contracts. The situation is still evolving, and more information may be released in the future.
The details of the situation are quite vague, but the Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws reports that this project is in the works. The possibility of the Belgian team’s dissolution was further reinforced after the confirmation of the cancellation of a traditional team meeting.
A source from HLN refers to it as a “remaining team” with Lefevere in charge. This team would continue with Soudal Quick-Step’s current WorldTour license. It is reported that both the ‘fusion team’ Jumbo-Visma and Lefevere’s team would also apply for their own UCI license for 2024.
Sponsors that do not join the fusion team would then become part of Lefevere’s team so that all contracts can be honored. This would include Kasper Asgreen, Ilan Van Wilder, Julian Alaphilippe, and newcomer Mikel Landa. According to the newspaper, the cyclists and staff have not been officially informed about this plan, but it has been indicated that they may hold off on considering offers from other teams for now.
The names of Quick-Step, Latexco, and Renson, among others, are mentioned as potential sponsors to keep the team alive for at least one more year.