Lidl-Trek has secured the future of three key riders, confirming contract extensions for Lauretta Hanson, Amanda Spratt, and Ilaria Sanguineti. The trio, each integral to the team’s recent successes, will remain with the squad for the coming seasons, solidifying their roles within one of the top teams in women’s cycling.
Hanson’s loyalty to the team remains steadfast
Lauretta Hanson, who has been part of Lidl-Trek since its formation in 2019, will stay with the team until 2026. The Australian rider has developed into one of the most dependable domestiques in the peloton, particularly excelling in the punishing northern classics. Known for her resilience across all terrains, Hanson has become an essential figure within the squad.
Speaking about her decision to stay, Hanson said, “Extending with Lidl-Trek is an easy decision and one that I’m super happy with. I’ve been a part of this team since the beginning and it’s an environment where I feel valued, but also constantly challenged and inspired to be the best I can be.” She added, “In 2019, we were a new team, and everyone was growing and developing together. Now, 6 years on, we are one of the best teams in the world. I feel incredibly proud to have been a part of that journey.”
Hanson’s influence on the team, particularly her consistent performances and dedication, has earned her praise within the sport, and her presence will be critical to Lidl-Trek’s plans moving forward.
Spratt continues to mentor and lead
Meanwhile, Amanda Spratt also confirmed her future with the team, signing a contract extension through to 2026. A seasoned climber and leader, Spratt’s contributions to Lidl-Trek go beyond her own performances on the bike. She has taken on a mentor role for the team’s younger general classification contenders while still competing at the front of the race.
Spratt reflected on her contract renewal: “It was an easy decision to renew with Lidl-Trek and to remain part of this family for another two years. Lidl-Trek was a team that I had admired long before joining in 2023, and I continue to be constantly inspired and motivated by the people around me, especially my teammates.”
With her vast experience and continued ambitions, Spratt remains an asset, not only in her individual performances but also in fostering the growth of the team’s rising stars.
Sanguineti aims to bounce back
Italian lead-out specialist Ilaria Sanguineti has also signed on for another year, staying with Lidl-Trek until the end of 2025. After a challenging 2024 season, Sanguineti is determined to return to her best form, continuing to play a pivotal role in setting up victories for sprinters such as Elisa Balsamo.
Sanguineti expressed her gratitude for the contract renewal: “This reconfirmation is a great honour for me. Lidl-Trek is a dream team, a unique group, a second family for me. I am very, very happy. Our group has been renewed a lot for the future, and we have several new riders coming in.” She also acknowledged the challenges of her 2024 season but was optimistic about what lies ahead: “Now that I have recovered my health and condition, I aim to finish the season with bold performances. Then, head straight to 2025.”
Her focus on bouncing back and supporting the team’s goals highlights her commitment to Lidl-Trek, both as a competitor and a team player.
Teutenberg recognises trio’s impact
Lidl-Trek sports director Ina-Yoko Teutenberg praised the trio, emphasising their importance to the team’s success. “We are incredibly fortunate to have riders like Spratty, Lauretta, and Yaya in the team. Spratty’s leadership and climbing expertise, Lauretta’s strength across all terrains, and Yaya’s exceptional lead-out skills have been crucial to our success,” she said.
Teutenberg’s comments reflect how each rider brings something unique to the team, contributing to the squad’s ongoing strength and competitiveness on the world stage.
