# The Heart of Lotto Soudal: A Call for Respect and Recognition
In the world of professional cycling, respect is paramount and must be earned each day. This ethos drives Lotto Soudal, a team that has carved its identity through 37 years of offensive racing. The team’s spirit is captured in their mantra of “attacking in the race, but not outside of it.” Despite their efforts, the team feels they deserve more acknowledgment than they currently receive.
Recent criticisms have left a mark on Lotto Soudal, particularly a column by influential journalist Jan Segers in **Het Laatste Nieuws**. The piece described the team as a “State team” and labeled it a “sheltered workshop” for riders and staff. This portrayal has deeply saddened General Manager John Lelangue, who spent a week contemplating the implications and conferring with colleagues and cyclists.
Reflecting on their performance during the Giro d’Italia, Lelangue pointed out that while the team concluded the event with just two riders—Stefano Oldani and Harm Vanhoucke—this was not the intended outcome. Had Harm not crashed, he could have secured a victory in the Strade Bianche stage, adding to the team’s accomplishments. Moreover, Caleb Ewan’s unexpected abandonment due to knee pain during stage 8 hampered their chances further. Lelangue emphasized, “It is disrespectful that this was being questioned,” highlighting the importance of patience and respect for player health.
The atmosphere within Lotto Soudal contrasts sharply with the image some portray. Lelangue noted that harsh words may be exchanged among team members when needed, but it is done with mutual respect and an understanding of their shared goal: performance. The team’s reputation for nurturing its riders and staff has fostered a supportive environment, essential for their competitive edge.
Concerns about how sponsors view such “unjustified criticism” resonate with Lelangue. Lotto and Soudal are pivotal partners in Belgian cycling, contributing beyond just financial backing. Lelangue declared, “Without Lotto, there wouldn’t be much left of the Belgian cycling sport,” reminding critics that the support extends to various facets of the sport, including grassroots initiatives and development teams.
Ultimately, Lotto Soudal remains committed to being a positive force in cycling. Lelangue asserted their readiness to accept valid criticism, but he cautioned against unfounded accusations that can undermine the sport. He insisted, “We continue to invest in cycling, in a sustainable and constructive manner.”
In the spirit of resilience and respect, Lotto Soudal asserts its dedication to the cycling community and its values.
**John Lelangue, General Manager Lotto Soudal**
