ProTeam Arnaud De Lie returns to the peloton in Cologne
Rund um Köln marks the first step in Arnaud De Lie’s return to the highest level. The last time he pinned on a race number was at Gent-Wevelgem, at the end of March. After that, in consultation with the team, he decided to take a step back to recharge both physically and mentally.
“The past weeks and months haven’t been easy,” says Arnaud De Lie. “I had to rediscover the joy of riding my bike. I had prepared so well this winter, trained so hard in Spain, but it didn’t lead to the results I had hoped for. Taking a step back and resetting the course was the right decision. I’ve been training well again, and the coaches are happy with the work I’ve put in. We’ll see what the results bring, but for now my main focus is to continue doing what I love. I return with renewed motivation and hope to build a strong second part of my season, just like last year.”
Sporting manager Kurt Van de Wouwer underlines the importance of a calm and well-thought-out approach for De Lie’s comeback. “Rund um Köln was always part of his race program. It’s a good opportunity for Arnaud to return and find his rhythm again, without the pressure that comes with the spring classics. We’re confident that things will turn around for him, and as a team, we’ll do everything we can to support him.”
Also starting in Cologne for Lotto Cycling Team are Brent Van Moer, Milan Menten, Sebastien Grignard, Toon Aerts, Tars Poelvoorde, and Victor Vaneeckhoutte. For Toon Aerts, it will be his first race in Lotto colors.
Picture: Brecht Steenhouwer
