Former professional cyclists Nikolas Maes and Annelies Dom have transitioned into their new roles as sports directors for the Lotto Soudal cycling teams. Maes joined the WorldTeam as sports director, while Dom became sports director for the Ladies team. In a recent interview, both Maes and Dom discussed their experiences in their new positions, the challenges they faced, and their ultimate dreams as sports directors.
When asked about their first time in the team car, Dom explained, “It was quite hectic… there are also a lot of other things going on when you’re in the car.” Maes expressed excitement about his debut as a sports director, saying, “There was a healthy portion of stress, but I was really looking forward to it.” However, Dom did encounter a minor collision in her first race, the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad.
Maes and Dom both shared their motivations for becoming sports directors. Dom stated, “It is fantastic to be able to share my experience as a former rider… It is a job in which I can express my own personality.” Maes explained that he wanted to continue his involvement in cycling after retiring as a professional cyclist.
Reflecting on their new roles, Maes noted, “During my active cycling career, I only saw half of what being a sports director actually entails.” Dom agreed, adding, “An enormous amount of time and work goes into the preparations for a race, a part which you don’t see as a rider.”
Both Maes and Dom emphasized the importance of communication and support in their roles as sports directors. Dom stated, “I hope they [the riders] feel supported and therefore motivated to give the best of themselves.” Maes expressed his desire to be the type of sports director he appreciated as a rider.
Looking ahead to the 2021 season, Dom expressed a desire for improvement, stating, “It’s rewarding to see progress.” Maes acknowledged the talent of the team and emphasized the riders’ performance as the ultimate goal. He also expressed his ambition to develop further as a sports director.
When asked about their ultimate dreams as sports directors, Maes expressed his desire to win a spring Classic, while Dom simply hoped to win a race with one of her riders. Both Maes and Dom acknowledged the adrenaline rush and sense of accomplishment that comes with victory in the cycling world.
While their new roles keep them busy, both Maes and Dom expressed a desire to continue pursuing their own sports interests. Dom mentioned her back problems that limit her ability to exercise, while Maes said, “I don’t have the time but I would like to pick up the thread after the spring Classics.”
As they continue their journeys as sports directors, Maes and Dom are excited about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Their experiences and insights from their professional cycling careers will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the Lotto Soudal teams.
