BORA-hansgrohe was involved in the two main transfers of 2023. The team signed Primoz Roglic from Visma-Lease a Bike. However, Cian Uijtdebroeks, after a huge controversy, made the opposite move. The 20-year-old super talent signed a contract with Primoz Roglic’s former team until 2027.
Controversy would involve case of bullying
The transfer of Uijtdebroeks was marked by a strong dispute. By announcing the arrival of the young Belgian cyclist, Visma-Lease a Bike surprised BORA-hansgrohe, who, in response, issued a statement stating that Uijtdebroeks would remain with them and that they were willing to take him to court if necessary.
The reason behind his sudden departure would be a case of bullying. Rumors even suggested the existence of a WhatsApp group where people would talk about Uijtdebroeks. During the Vuelta, it was also evident that Uijtdebroeks and his teammates were not on the same page.
Meanwhile, all parties have reached an agreement and Uijtdebroeks no longer needs to worry about his future. BORA-hansgrohe claims that there was no bullying.
Official response from BORA-Hansgrohe
“We certainly take these stories about bullying seriously,” sports manager Rolf Aldag told Het Nieuwsblad. “I was with the team during the first part of the Vuelta and I didn’t notice anything. Of course, I cannot estimate how this was felt by Cian.”
“We did not identify anything that would force us to intervene or adjust. If there was a problem, it was also up to Cian to report it. He didn’t do that. Therefore, I dare to say, with my hand on my heart, that nothing happened that was unacceptable or for which we should apologize.”