picnic postNL has announced no fewer than three new signings for the upcoming season. They are the British riders James Knox and Oliver Peace, and the Irishman Dillon Corkery. Knox signs for one season, while Peace and Corkery are contracted until the end of 2027.
There had been previous rumors about Corkery's transfer, but now the deal is officially done. The 26-year-old rider comes from the French team St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93 and is seen as a true late bloomer. Over the past years, he steadily climbed the ranks, but this season he really caught attention: finishing sixth in the GP de Denain, eighth in La Roue Tourangelle, and third in the opening stage of the Région Pays de la Loire Tour.
These performances earned him a trial spot at Team Picnic PostNL, where he recently made his debut in the Kampioenschap van Vlaanderen. "I have always wanted to be part of a team that combines professionalism with room to grow, and Team Picnic PostNL immediately felt like the right place," he states on the team website. "I am really looking forward to racing in events I used to dream about, like the classics and maybe one day a Grand Tour."
"I would describe myself as a punchy rider with a fast sprint, who can also support our sprinters when needed. My goal is to contribute to a winning team culture and maintain it throughout the season. On the bike, I bring experience and race intelligence, and off the bike I try to create a relaxed atmosphere and have some ‘craic’ with the guys, as we say in Ireland."
Corkery (with frame number 104) already raced for Picnic PostNL at the Gooikse Pijl – photo: Fotopersburo Cor Vos
After two strong years with the Development program, Oliver Peace makes the step up to the main team at age 20. "From the start, I felt at home here and I've already made many great memories. Looking ahead, I want to continue developing at WorldTour level, contribute as much as possible to the team, and at the same time learn from the experienced riders." His younger brother Matthew Peace (18) recently signed for the development team.
Knox wants to support compatriots Onley and Poole
James Knox, as a 29-year-old rider, brings a lot of experience. After eight seasons at Soudal Quick-Step, the climber is about to embark on a new adventure. "What attracted me to Team Picnic PostNL is the chance to join a team with a proven track record and to work alongside talented young riders like fellow countrymen Oscar Onley and Max Poole."
"I look forward to being part of a strong team culture and contributing to continued success. I see myself as an experienced and reliable rider in stage races and Grand Tours, someone who has been part of major victories and would like to do so again at Picnic PostNL. My goal is always to achieve the maximum in the biggest races. On the bike, I bring stability and experience, and off the bike, I want to be a positive, motivating force within the team."
