Ethan Hayter, reigning British road race champion, is preparing to begin a new chapter with Soudal Quick-Step this season. The 26-year-old Londoner, joining six other new faces on the team’s roster, spoke enthusiastically about settling into the squad.
“It’s been pretty easy to settle in the team,” Hayter shared. “I didn’t know any of the guys before apart from speaking with some of them in races, but that’s one of the many things I like about this team. Despite not knowing anybody, I immediately got a warm welcome. We have had some smooth training camps in Calpe so far, combining the photoshoots with training sessions, and I am satisfied with how things went.”
Hayter is set to make his debut with the Belgian outfit at the Muscat Classic in the Middle East, followed by the Tour of Oman, where Soudal Quick-Step boasts an impressive history of eight victories, including an overall title. Reflecting on the opportunity, Hayter said it’s an exciting change of scenery for him.
“It will be my first time going to Oman, which is nice, because I get a change from what I was used to. Actually, it will be my first time in the Middle East and I’m looking forward to the hilly races there,” he explained.
March will see Hayter test himself in France with back-to-back races in the Ardèche and Drôme Classics, where he hopes to seize opportunities to make his mark early in the season. Beyond this, his schedule includes WorldTour stage races, with plans to tackle both the Volta a Catalunya and Itzulia Basque Country.
“I am also looking forward to the French weekend, which should be a nice experience,” Hayter added. “Then, if all goes as planned, I am scheduled to be at the start of Catalunya, followed by Basque Country – two other important races where I could find some opportunities. I don’t know what to expect from this season, but I do know what I want: to enjoy racing again, get some nice wins, and if this happens and I take a victory in the first weeks of the year, we’ll see what I can do next.”
With almost 20 road victories and a wealth of Olympic and World Championship medals from his track racing career, Hayter remains one of the most decorated British riders of recent years. His new start with Soudal Quick-Step offers a platform to rediscover his form and make an impact in the team’s distinctive blue colours.
Main photo credit: Wout Beel
