Lidl-Trek launches its own junior team: "Our goal is ambitious"

Lidl-Trek already has its own U23 squad, but now – in collaboration with the German regional cycling association of Baden-Württemberg – it is launching a junior team: Lidl-Trek Junior Racing.

"Investing in riders under 23 has long been a cornerstone of Lidl-Trek’s philosophy, and in 2024 we reinforced our commitment with the launch of Lidl-Trek Future Racing," the German team outlines the pathway leading to the creation of the junior squad. "After witnessing the incredible success of that program, we are now taking the next step."

With the support of the Baden-Württemberg regional cycling team, this has become possible. "Lidl-Trek Junior Racing is a team set up to guide young riders through a structured performance pathway, focusing on long-term wellbeing and continuous education," the team states in a press release.

Focused on the long term
With the addition of a junior team, Lidl-Trek now has a complete structure that can nurture riders from junior level through the U23 category up to the WorldTour. "The goal is ambitious and long-term: to discover and develop the biggest talents, and to give young riders every opportunity to grow and excel within a program fully tailored to them."

By 2026, the team will consist of thirteen riders: ten from the German cycling federation and three international riders. The squad will be supported by many of the same sponsors who back Lidl-Trek’s WorldTour setup. The team will make its competitive debut at the Tour du Bocage et de l’Ernée 53 (March 28-29), a prestigious French stage race for juniors.