The transfer of Cian Uijtdebroeks from Visma | Lease a Bike to Movistar did not come as a surprise to Richard Plugge. The young Belgian still had a contract with the Dutch team until the end of 2027, but he expressed his desire to leave. So, after consultation, his contract was terminated and replaced by a commitment until the end of 2029 with the Spanish Movistar. Interestingly, in Movistar’s press release, Plugge also comments on the transfer.
"We have shared two intense years," said Visma | Lease a Bike team manager Plugge. "And we are very happy that Cian secured his first professional victory for our team this year." He is referring to the stage win at the Tour de l'Ain in August, which ultimately also gave Uijtdebroeks the overall win in that stage race.
But what is the reason for Uijtdebroeks' departure? "The honest story is that Cian’s ambitions and those of the team began to diverge. At this moment, we cannot offer Cian the role and race program that he considers essential for his development," Plugge explains.
"After open and honest conversations, we agreed to his request to take a new step in his career. We wish Cian all the best."
'Further developing as a GC contender in grand tours'
Which direction does the 22-year-old Belgian want to take? "I’m now at a stage in my career where I want to further develop as a GC contender in grand tours; that has become very important. I am convinced that Movistar, and someone like Enric Mas in particular, can help me grow in that respect, and also achieve results," says Uijtdebroeks himself. "I believe this environment can help me develop into a key figure in the peloton."
"Visma | Lease a Bike was and still is one of the biggest teams in the world, with a specific approach to cycling. Over the last two years, I’ve learned a lot about training methods, nutrition, and many other aspects. But now I feel it is time to seek new horizons and take on a new challenge."
Cian Uijtdebroeks| Year | Team |
|---|---|
| 2029 | |
| 2028 | |
| 2027 | |
| 2026 | |
| 2025 |
