Ellen van Dijk, a three-time world champion and veteran of the cycling world, has confirmed she will extend her contract with Lidl-Trek for another year, securing her place in the team until the end of 2025. The Dutch rider, who has achieved 68 professional victories, including the Tour of Flanders and 40 individual time trials, expressed her satisfaction at continuing her journey with a team she considers her “home.”
“I am super happy to extend my contract with Lidl-Trek for one more year,” van Dijk stated. “I have been part of the Team since the very beginning and, honestly, I cannot imagine riding for another team. So, for me, it was more a question of if I wanted to continue racing after my comeback from having Faas and becoming a mum, because I didn’t know what it would be like. However, I have received the best support from the Team, not only after pregnancy but more recently after my broken ankle, and this Team really feels like my home, it’s where I belong.”
The 36-year-old has been a key figure in Lidl-Trek’s growth since its inception in 2019. Her decision to extend her contract follows a year of significant personal and professional milestones, including her return to racing after the birth of her son, Faas, and overcoming a broken ankle. With her sights firmly set on the Paris Olympics, van Dijk’s desire to remain with Lidl-Trek is rooted in her continued motivation and the team’s evolution.
“It’s been nice to see the Team grow from the very beginning and to have been part of that journey over the last five years,” she remarked. “The Team is much bigger, we have younger talent coming through the programme now, which is really positive for the future, and so, I am really happy to be part of it. I have put a lot of energy into coming back this year and, in the end, I thought it was a shame to only use that for one year. I feel like I want to continue, I still have the motivation, and I know I have more to give Lidl-Trek.”
Ina-Yoko Teutenberg, the team’s sports director, was full of praise for van Dijk’s decision to stay on. “Ellen is not only a phenomenal athlete but also an invaluable presence within the team,” Teutenberg explained. “Her work ethic, leadership, and wealth of experience have played a huge role in our successes over the years. What makes Ellen special is her ability to balance personal ambition with the dedication to help others. She passes on an incredible amount of knowledge to our younger riders, showing them what it takes to compete at the highest level. Having her on board for another year is a huge boost for the entire team.”
Van Dijk’s career has been defined by her consistency and ability to adapt. Despite nearly two decades in professional cycling, her passion for the sport and commitment to Lidl-Trek remain unwavering. With her contract extended, van Dijk is set to continue making an impact both on and off the bike as she helps guide the next generation of riders.
