Max Walscheid moves to Lidl - Trek

Max Walscheid will play for the team from the coming season Lidl - Trek at the start. The American team announced the signing of the German sprinter on a three-year contract. The 32-year-old, who is currently still racing for the Team Jayco AlUla will wear the team's red, blue and yellow colours until 2028. Walscheid brings with him ten years of experience at WorldTour level and has racked up 13 professional victories in China, Malaysia and Europe so far in his career. With his impressive height of 1.99 metres, the German has a physical presence that makes him a valuable rider for the sprints and classics in the team. Alongside his cycling career, Walscheid has also pursued a medical degree, which he continued online during the coronavirus pandemic. Although he has not ruled out a medical career in the future, his current focus is clearly on cycling and helping Lidl-Trek achieve success at the highest level.

Max Walscheid: New role in the sprint train and in the classics

For Max Walscheid, the switch to Lidl - Trek means a new challenge at the highest level. In his new team, he will primarily act as an important part of the sprint train for the Italian top sprinter Jonathan Milan and support the Danish classics specialist Mads Pedersen in the spring classics. "I've had a great time with Team Jayco AlUla over the last two years. I've been lucky enough to work with great people and, of course, to race successfully. When the opportunity arose to ride for Lidl - Trek, one of the absolute top teams in the WorldTour, I didn't hesitate for a moment," explained Walscheid about his switch. The German sees his role clearly defined: "Lidl - Trek is ideally positioned for classics and sprints - I'm ready to help Mads Pedersen and Jonathan Milan in sprints, while also looking for my own opportunities when they arise. And I'm extremely motivated to give it my all at Grand Tours because we'll have so many different ways to be successful."

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Scientific approach as a motivating factor

One particular aspect that appeals to Walscheid about his new team is the scientific approach that Lidl-Trek pursues. "I've seen the team's scientific approach, whether it's in the development of the sprint train, the excellent material or the team behind the team. This uncompromising attitude fits perfectly with my desire to optimise all aspects of my performance and it brings out the best in everyone. I'm ready to help write the Lidl - Trek success story!" emphasised the newcomer. This approach is in line with Walscheid's own view of professional sport, in which he always strives for optimisation and improvement. Luca Guercilena, team manager at Lidl - Trek, also commented favourably on the signing: "Max is a powerful engine and an experienced rider who can make a real difference in many situations. He brings both power and race intelligence, be it in the sprint train, the cobbled classics or reading a race in hectic finales. Max is highly motivated to help our team leaders succeed, and he can also win himself when the opportunity presents itself. We are delighted to welcome him to the team."