# The Inspiring Journey of Soigneur Bram De Meulenaere: From Son to Supporter
Bram De Meulenaere, a vibrant 26-year-old from Aalter, is in his third year with Lotto Dstny, fueled by a profound passion for cycling that originated in his childhood. Growing up alongside his father, who worked as a soigneur for Jayco AlUla, Bram developed a deep appreciation for the unique bond formed between soigneurs and riders. Reflecting on his journey, he noted, “I immediately felt that as a soigneur you have a very special bond with a rider; at that moment, I knew that I wanted to become a soigneur.”
His interest in cycling wasn’t just a fleeting passion. While studying electromechanics, he took his father’s guidance to heart and pursued a bachelor’s degree to become a mechanic in cycling. However, life took a poignant turn when his father fell ill. During this challenging time, Bram observed the outpouring of support for his father from various riders and team members, solidifying his decision to carry on in his father’s footsteps.
Bram reminisces about his early experiences in the sport: “I took photos of everything when I went to the races with my dad. I was in the truck and wanted to have a photo of myself or I helped make bottles.” One of his proudest moments came when he handed his first bottle to Belgian cyclist Jens Keukeleire during the 2012 Belgian Championships, a day forever etched in his memory.
Following his father’s passing in 2014, he faced a tumultuous period. “It was a very difficult period, but we got a lot of support, also from the people of his team,” he shared, expressing gratitude for the bonds formed in times of grief. “A couple of people even promised my dad to take care of me.”
Recognizing the uncertainty that comes with a career in cycling, Bram thoughtfully completed his studies to maintain a “plan B.” After graduating, he began his professional journey in women’s cycling with Jayco AlUla. However, an exciting opportunity in men’s cycling with Lotto Dstny arose, which he embraced wholeheartedly. While he appreciates the Belgian perspective on racing, he admits, “I miss the international character… you have a lot of different cultures coming together for the same passion.”
For Bram, witnessing a rider’s victory is the pinnacle of his work. “The most beautiful thing for me personally is when a rider wins, and you know that you also helped towards that performance,” he shared. Yet, the demands of the job often mean sacrifices. “Being away from home a lot makes you miss out on certain moments with family and friends.”
His debut victory as a soigneur, which came during his time with women’s cycling, remains unforgettable. More recently, he celebrated the stage win of Andreas Kron at last year’s Vuelta, recalling, “I was normally not that nervous at the finish, but there I was.” With ambition fueling his aspirations, Bram looks ahead. “On my bucket list, I still have a lot of races that I want to win. I live with hope and I am ambitious.”
As Bram continues to support the athletes at Lotto Dstny, his journey is not just about cycling; it’s about legacy, resilience, and nurturing the bonds that define the sport.
*Photos: Facepeeters*
