Australian junior time-trial World Champion Felicity Wilson-Haffenden has penned a three-year contract with Lidl-Trek, making sure that her tenure with the American outfit will last until the end of 2026. Wilson-Haffenden, who began her year by clinching the national time trial title and continued her dominance at the Oceania Continental Championships, eventually sealed her triple crown of time trial titles at the World Championships in Glasgow. She becomes the fifth 18-year-old to join Lidl-Trek’s ranks, emphasising the team’s ongoing investment in fostering young talent – this week the team also confirmed the signing of Fleur Moors.
Speaking about her decision, Wilson-Haffenden pointed out that her foremost consideration was a team focused on development. She was convinced that Lidl-Trek, with its mix of budding talent and veteran prowess, would offer an enriching experience for her initial years in the professional peloton. The young Australian also expressed excitement about honing her tactical skills within European racing conditions, which significantly differ from those in her native Australia. While anticipating challenges, she noted that the network of support at Lidl-Trek makes her optimistic about her transition into professional cycling.
Moreover, Wilson-Haffenden relished the prospect of joining fellow Australians on the team, describing it as an opportunity she’s looked forward to since taking up cycling. First-year Under-23 teammates like Isabel Sharpe, Ava Holmgren, and Isabella Holmgren are also on her radar for forming strong relationships as they evolve within the team.
Ina-Yoko Teutenberg, Lidl-Trek Sports Director, heralded Wilson-Haffenden as a rider of “great potential,” emphasizing the abundant expertise she will have at her disposal to elevate her performance. Teutenberg acknowledged the challenges associated with moving across the globe at a young age but expressed confidence that the team’s existing role models would facilitate Wilson-Haffenden’s transition to professional life.
