Lidl-Trek: building a Cycling Superteam
Lidl-Trek is making a notable push to establish itself as a dominant force in professional cycling. Recent investments and strategic rider acquisitions signal a clear ambition: to reach the very top of the sport. This article breaks down the team’s current standing, recent changes, and what it will take to truly become a “superteam.”
A Boost in Investment & Ambition
Lidl’s increased sponsorship has already begun to impact the team’s trajectory. The team’s budget saw an estimated 40% increase in 2024 with Lidl as the title sponsor. Further financial backing is arriving for 2026,solidifying the team’s financial foundation.
This influx of capital is directly fueling the team’s ambitions, both in terms of on-road performance and overall competitive strategy.
Key Rider Acquisitions for 2025 & Beyond
The team has been proactive in strengthening its roster, targeting riders who can contribute to success across various disciplines. Notably, the signing of Spanish talent Juan Ayuso on a five-year deal underscores the team’s long-term vision.
Alongside ayuso, Lidl-Trek has brought in experienced riders to bolster their sprint and classics capabilities:
* Max Walscheid
* Matteo Sobrero
* Mathias Norsgaard
* Jakob Söderqvist
Navigating Rider Departures
While adding talent, Lidl-Trek has also experienced some departures. The team is adjusting to the loss of riders who previously contributed in classics and sprints, including:
* Dan Hoole
* Alex Kirsch
* Juan Pedro Lopez
* Jasper Stuyven
* Tim declercq (retired)
* Ryan Gibbons (retired)
Women’s Team in Transition
The women’s team is undergoing a period of transition. Significant riders like elisa Longo Borghini, Lizzie Deignan, and Ellen Van Dijk have moved on or retired. Currently, Elisa Balsamo and the Holgren twins are forming the core of the team’s foundation.
Current Ranking & The Pursuit of Victory
Lidl-Trek currently aims to be the world’s No. 1 team, initially measuring success through UCI rankings. In 2025, the men’s team finished third in the season-long UCI rankings, closely trailing UAE Emirates-XRG and Visma-Lease a Bike. The women’s team concluded the season in fourth place, a slight dip from their second-place position earlier in the year.
However, the team recognizes that rankings alone don’t define true success. Ultimately, victories are what truly matter.
Strengths & Remaining Gaps
The men’s team already boasts world-class riders in Mads Pedersen (classics) and Jonathan Milan (sprints). What they lacked was a strong contender for Grand Tour victories.
This is where ayuso comes in. The team is betting heavily on his potential to become their Grand Tour leader.
The Path to Superteam Status
So,what does it take for Lidl-Trek to reach the pinnacle of cycling and achieve “superteam” status? The goals are clear,but challenging:
* Win a men’s Grand Tour. This is the most significant hurdle.
* Claim victory in a Monument classic. These prestigious one-day races are a hallmark of cycling excellence.
* Secure a podium finish in the Tour de France Femmes. Demonstrating success in the premier women’s stage race is crucial.
These objectives are not easily achieved, but they represent the enterprising vision driving Lidl-Trek forward. The team is investing strategically, building a strong roster, and setting its sights on becoming a dominant force in the world of professional cycling.
