Nienke Vinke signs three-year contract with Team SD Worx – Protime

# Nienke Vinke Joins Team SD Worx – Protime on a Three-Year Contract

Nienke Vinke has officially signed a three-year contract with Team SD Worx – Protime, marking an exciting new chapter in her professional cycling career. The rider from Amersfoort enjoyed a remarkable season, highlighted by her eighth-place finish in La Flèche Wallonne, a ninth-place standing in the general classification of the Vuelta España Femenina, and a victory in the young rider classification at the Tour de France Femmes.

Reflecting on her season, Vinke expressed satisfaction with her progress, stating, “In the Tour, I had hoped to finish one day a bit closer to the big GC riders. Partly due to a puncture in the penultimate stage, in the valley leading up to the Col de la Madeleine, that didn’t quite work out. Still, winning the white jersey in the Tour is, of course, very special.”

Team SD Worx – Protime has been interested in Vinke for several years. Team leader Stam noted, “It was clear early on that Nienke is a real talent. We’re happy to have been given a second chance to work with her. In her first year, she can continue to grow in the shadow of riders such as Lotte Kopecky, Anna van der Breggen, Lorena Wiebes, and Mischa Bredewold.” He highlighted Vinke’s climbing potential, emphasizing her strong performance in both hilly terrains and long climbs during stage races.

Vinke has observed her new teammates’ development, recognizing that they have grown into some of the best in the world. “There are big names and riders with a lot of experience in the team. I hope to learn a great deal from them. It’s also a team where winning is very important. With that mindset, the team starts practically every race. I hope to help the girls achieve new victories next season and to continue developing myself in that supporting role,” she explained.

In addition to her cycling commitments, Vinke will continue pursuing part-time studies in human movement sciences. Expressing her views on her new deal, she remarked, “It gives me security. You don’t have the pressure of having to immediately prove yourself to secure a new contract. I mainly hope to prove myself in the hilly classics and in stage races. Last season’s results are encouraging and provide huge motivation for the coming years.”

With her new contract in hand and a supportive team environment, Vinke is poised for an exciting future in cycling.