Since last Saturday, the cycling world has been on alert with the possible transfer of Cian Uijtdebroeks from BORA-Hansgrohe to Jumbo-Visma. Currently, both teams are involved in intense negotiations regarding the talented Belgian climber.
Patrick Lefevere, the leader of the Soudal Quick-Step team, has also expressed his opinion on the matter, not forgetting to mention an incident involving the director of BORA-Hansgrohe that also involved Patrick Lefevere and Remco Evenepoel.
Lefevere believes UCI should handle the case.
The 68-year-old Belgian is clearly on the side of BORA-Hansgrohe in this case. “I think Cian Uijtdebroeks has a contract until the end of 2024. He hired an agent and was aware of the situation. The UCI should adhere to its own rules. Only if three parties agree can a transfer take place, with UCI permission,” describes Lefevere on the X platform.
Criticism of the BORA-Hansgrohe manager.
However, Lefevere does not think that Ralph Denk, the head of BORA-Hansgrohe, should play the role of a victim. “On January 21, 2021, I had a meeting with Ralph in Brussels,” Lefevere recalls.
“We agreed that he would wait until March 31 to make an offer for Remco Evenepoel if I had not secured the team’s future by then. On March 8, he sent a written offer to Remco’s father. So, please, don’t come crying now.”
