Experienced Belgian is the sixth rider to extend with the team.
In the four years that have passed since he joined the team, Bert Van Lerberghe has evolved into one of the best lead-out men in the business, contributing to our team’s impressive victory tally. In the past season, his skills were put to good use in the service of his best friend Tim Merlier, as he formed a formidable duo with the two-time Belgian Champion, whom he helped rack up wins from February to September.
The 31-year-old from Kortrijk – who has put in some solid outings also in the one-day races since becoming a member of the Wolfpack – will continue to do that also in the next two seasons, after signing a new contract with Soudal Quick-Step until the end of 2025.
I am really happy to be staying for two more years!
“The previous four seasons have been really nice and this team is not like others – it is like a family. I know my role as a domestique and I want to do as much as I can in the Classics and in the sprints for Tim. I would like to do well in races like Gent-Wevelgem and Paris-Roubaix for sure, to be in the final of both to help them win another classic.”
“Everyone knows about my special relationship with Tim, which was of course part of my decision. We have known each other for over 20 years. I think part of him joining the team was because of me and now it would be strange if I was to leave now that he is here. We weren’t sure how it would work when he joined, but we have trust in each other, and a bond in the races as well as off the bike, so staying with the team made a lot of sense”, said a delighted Bert.
CEO Patrick Lefevere shared the happiness of this new deal, which sees the team continue to build on a solid squad for the next few years: “Bert is a really strong and selfless rider, a real team player who always gives his best for the team. During his time with us, he became one of finest lead-out riders in the peloton, and what better testimony to this than his chemistry with Tim Merlier. We are delighted that he will continue to be a member of the team in the next two years.”
Photo credit: ©Luc Claessen / Getty Images
