Team Visma | Lease a Bike have revealed their new race kit for the 2026 season, with the men’s and women’s squads continuing in the team’s instantly recognisable yellow and black, while leaning further into design cues inspired by their long-standing nickname, The Bees.
Produced once again by Nimbl, the 2026 kit builds directly on last season’s look rather than reinventing it. The visual identity remains familiar, but subtle refinements sharpen contrast, enhance visibility, and add texture to a design that the team describes as both performance-driven and symbolic.
‘New season, new skin’
In team communications, Visma | Lease a Bike say the kit has been developed under the tagline “New Season, New Skin”, reflecting a balance between evolution and continuity. The dominant yellow remains central, but with increased use of black detailing to add definition and clarity within the peloton and on television.
According to the team, the design has three clear priorities: rider comfort and performance, immediate recognition for fans, and consistent visual identity across both squads. Subtle fabric patterns referencing bee hairs are woven into the material, intended to symbolise collective strength, unity, and teamwork rather than acting as a bold graphic feature.
The concept of the jersey as a “second skin” runs throughout the launch. Visma | Lease a Bike describe it as apparel that protects, moves with the rider, and supports performance across a wide range of racing conditions, while remaining lightweight and flexible.
Nimbl’s expanding role
The 2026 kit further cements Nimbl’s growing involvement with the team. While the Italian brand had already been supplying cycling shoes, it took responsibility for full race apparel midway through last season, a transition that coincided with Rabobank’s return as a major sponsor.
Nimbl say their approach draws on extensive research and product development, with a focus on creating a complete performance system rather than isolated pieces of equipment. The result, they claim, is kit that prioritises aerodynamics, comfort, and durability without compromising on visual identity.
Plugge: ‘Recognisable, but still improving’
Team general manager Richard Plugge framed the new kit as part of the team’s broader philosophy of constant refinement rather than radical change.
“A new season always means evaluating, improving, and building further,” Plugge said. “Our 2026 kit reflects that approach: recognisable in who we are, yet with attention to detail and development. Together with our partners, we continue to explore ways to support our riders in achieving their best performance.”
The kit will be worn by both the men’s and women’s squads from the opening races of the 2026 season, maintaining the team’s strong visual presence while subtly reinforcing the identity that has become synonymous with Visma | Lease a Bike’s success over recent years.
