It will take some time for the cycling fan to get used to seeing Tim Declercq leading the peloton during the classics season, wearing the Lidl Trek uniform. This transition also requires adjustment for the 34-year-old cyclist, as he reported to the British site GCN.
“The tractor,” as Tim Declercq is known in the peloton, claims not to have received offers to stay with Soudal Quick-Step.
“Everyone knew that Soudal Quick-Step had to make choices, and many cyclists for the classics were at the end of their contracts. I never received a clear ‘no’ from Patrick (Lefevere, team manager), but he also never made me an offer. In August, it was time to look for other opportunities, and I am very happy that Lidl-Trek has shown interest in me.”
According to Declercq, Lidl-Trek is an ambitious team that is still growing. “I haven’t trained with them yet, but the classics team is stronger than that of Soudal Quick-Step.”
Of course, it’s a tough question if you don’t have anyone on your team, but Mads (Pedersen) is a rider who will soon find himself, and maybe I can even ride alongside him.”
Declercq left Soudal Quick-Step after seven years. “I’m a rider who doesn’t want to change teams often; when I feel good somewhere, I like to stay. On the other hand, it might be good to leave my comfort zone and go to a team where they can give me new impulses. I hope to be able to maintain my current level at Lidl-Trek.”