ProTeam Maxim Van Gils extends his stay at Lotto Soudal

Maxim Van Gils continues his career at Lotto Soudal. The 22-year-old winner of the Saudi Tour has extended his contract by two years, until the end of 2024. “I think I still have a large growth margin and I can't imagine a better place than here to continue my development.”

Van Gils has been part of Lotto Soudal since 2018. He is, as many young, Belgian pro riders, a product of the Lotto Soudal Development Team. “During all those years in the team, first in the U23’s, later in the WorldTour, I was always able to progress”, Van Gils says. “The team has always believed in me and helped me to further develop myself. The atmosphere in this team is great, both amongst riders and staff. I feel at home here.”

With his stage and overall victory in the Saudi Tour, Van Gils got his first and second win during his second year at the pros. He also showed himself during famous Classics as Clásica San Sebastián, Milano-Sanremo and the Amstel Gold Race. Because of his results, but also his professional attitude, his ambition and his young age, Lotto Soudal was eager to renew Van Gils’ contract.

“Young, talented, Belgian riders like Maxim Van Gils belong at Lotto Soudal”, comments CEO John Lelangue. “He has already shown at his young age that he is capable of winning races at pro level. That first victory is an important step in the career of any rider. We believe that we will be able to guide Maxim Van Gils step by step to an even higher level.” Van Gils agrees with Lelangue’s words. “I think I still have a lot of growth margin and I can't imagine a better place than here to continue my development.”

Van Gils hopes to further develop himself in one-day races on hilly terrain and one-week stage races. “I would like to improve on my current strong points”, says Van Gils. “I want to compete for the victory in difficult one-day races and see how far I can go in shorter stage races. Also, in the grand tours I hope to be able to go for breakaways and fight for stage victories. I have a good sprint and want to put myself in situations where I can use it more often.”

“We have great confidence in the qualities and potential of Maxim Van Gils”, ends John Lelangue. “He fits perfectly within our team and the plans we have for the future. Together with him, we look towards that future with great enthusiasm.”

Images: Photo News.