The German discounter Lidl is finalising a deal announced back in July 2025 and securing control of one of the most successful WorldTour teams: Lidl - Trek. The contract was signed just in time for the conclusion of the traditional October team camp. The camp took place for the first time at the Lidl headquarters in Germany and marked the symbolic beginning of a new era. Roger Gierhart, Vice President of Trek Bicycle, emphasised the strategic importance of the expanded partnership. "The expansion of the partnership between Trek and Lidl is the perfect ending to an incredible season for Lidl - Trek," he explained. The combined resources, tools and expertise are expected to propel the team to the top of the sport. Trek founded the team in 2011 and has continuously led it to international success. 2025 Lidl - Trek already finished third in the UCI world rankings.
The new ownership structure brings considerable financial resources to the racing team. Lidl is not only investing in the takeover, but is also planning extensive infrastructure measures at the German site. At the same time, the team should also be racing with a German licence next year. The company wants to significantly expand its position in cycling and is using the WorldTour platform for global visibility. Thomas Rohregger, Head of Cycling at Lidl, described the signing of the contract as a monumental moment for the team. "We have approached this endeavour with immense respect for the legacy that Lidl - Trek has built," he said. The combined resources and expertise of both co-owners should accelerate performance development in the coming seasons.
Lidl - Trek: New team headquarters in Bad Wimpfen
Part of the Lidl Germany headquarters will be converted into the new home of the WorldTour team. The plans include a modern logistics centre that will house the entire team organisation. A dedicated performance area will support the riders in optimising their performance and at the same time serve as an attraction for young talent. The investment in the German infrastructure underlines Lidl's long-term ambitions in professional cycling. The company is thus creating a central contact point for all team activities in Europe.
The new headquarters offers strategic advantages for the logistics of the racing season. The most important European races can be reached efficiently from Bad Wimpfen, reducing transport costs and travelling times. The performance centre will be equipped with the latest technology to optimise training analyses and material development. Over 160 Lidl-Trek employees, including riders from the men's, women's and development teams, gathered for the official launch of the 2026 season preparations, demonstrating the new dimension of the team structure and the ambitious goals for the coming years. Trek Bicycle retains an important role as technical partner and co-owner despite the majority takeover.
Continuous rise in the WorldTour
The team has shown an impressive development in the UCI WorldTour rankings since 2022. From 12th place in 2022, the team climbed through 5th and 4th place to third place in 2025. This progression reflects the successful team strategy and the quality of the rider selection. Stars like Mads Pedersen, who has signed a lifetime contract with the team, form the foundation for further success. The Danish classics and sprint specialist has already won several stages in Grand Tours and classics.
The increase in performance is the result of targeted investments in driver equipment and team structure. The management systematically recruited talented and experienced professionals who continuously raised the level of performance. The combination of American team management and European racing culture proved to be a successful formula. The German majority shareholding provides the team with additional resources for driver salaries, equipment and the promotion of young talent. The declared goal of becoming the most successful team in road cycling underpins the high ambitions of the new ownership structure. The 2026 season will show whether the investments will lead to further improvements in the UCI rankings.
Strategic partnership with Trek Bicycle
Despite the majority takeover, Trek Bicycle remains an important partner in the team structure. The American bicycle manufacturer contributes decades of experience in professional cycling and technical innovations. The partnership gives the team access to the latest racing bike technologies and prototypes. Trek continuously develops new aerodynamic solutions, frame geometries and components that give the team a competitive edge. The cooperation between Lidl and Trek combines financial strength with technical expertise.
Roger Gierhart emphasised the importance of long-term cooperation for both companies. Trek uses the WorldTour team as a test laboratory for new technologies and receives valuable feedback from racing. The riders test prototypes under competition conditions and provide data for further developments. This symbiosis between manufacturer and team has proven itself in the past and will continue under the new ownership structure. The technical partnership extends to all areas from racing bikes to time trial machines and training equipment. Trek ensures that the team is always equipped with the latest material.
