As the cycling season gears up, Lotto Soudal is excited to welcome several promising newcomers to its team. One of them is 20-year-old Xandres Vervloesem, who will be embarking on his first season as a professional cyclist.
“To turn pro at the age of twenty is something I didn’t expect at all,” says Vervloesem. “In my first year as an U23 rider, I had very little race days due to health problems. But the summer of 2020 suddenly changed a lot.”
Last year, Vervloesem secured the general classification title at the prestigious U23 stage race, Ronde de l’Isard. Reflecting on his journey, Vervloesem says, “Last year, partly because of the COVID-19 situation, I had the time to slowly build the shape, to train well, but above all to just enjoy riding my bike. This was for me the perfect way to make progress.”
Choosing to make the transition to the Lotto Soudal WorldTeam, Vervloesem expresses his satisfaction with the decision: “The choice for the Lotto Soudal WorldTeam was a deliberate decision. After one year at a non-Belgian team, I realized that I attach a lot of importance to being home and around people I know.”
Vervloesem also highlights the family atmosphere within Lotto Soudal, emphasizing its role in his integration into the team.
Looking ahead, Vervloesem aims to diversify his skillset. Despite excelling in climbing, he also wants to focus on maintaining a hard and steady pace, rather than limiting himself to one specific role. Additionally, he prioritizes serving the team.
As Vervloesem embarks on his professional career, he is determined to make progress and contribute to the Lotto Soudal WorldTeam’s success.
Photo credit: Photo News
