In a strategic manoeuvre ahead of the 2024 season, UAE Team ADQ has enlisted the skills of 24-year-old Dutch cyclist Karlijn Swinkels, who previously raced with Jumbo-Visma. Swinkels is not just a new face on the team; she brings with her a wealth of experience and clear sporting ambitions.
According to reports, Swinkels is thrilled about this new chapter in her career. She has emphasised the importance of attributes like collaboration and trust as the building blocks for her future success with the team. In terms of individual objectives, Swinkels has set her sights firmly on securing podium finishes in high-profile Spring Classics, including Gent-Wevelgem. Among her most memorable achievements is a noteworthy fourth-place finish at the Gent-Wevelgem, a result that marked her out as one to watch in the Spring Classics. This was a signal to the cycling community that Swinkels could hold her own on the cobblestones and challenging terrains that these races often feature.
While she has lofty personal goals, Swinkels also recognises the importance of team success and has committed to contributing wholeheartedly to collective objectives. She acknowledges areas that require improvement, notably her climbing skills, which are vital to bolster her sprinting prowess. She also highlights the mental facets of the sport as critical for achieving her goals, believing that UAE Team ADQ will offer her the right milieu for growth.
What makes this partnership particularly noteworthy is that it’s not solely focused on sporting achievements. Swinkels has applauded the team’s dedication to sustainability and social impact, aligning closely with her own values.
In essence, the signing of Swinkels by UAE Team ADQ is a calculated move that offers the potential for significant growth and achievement for both the rider and the team. The union is set to be a multifaceted one, extending beyond the race track to encompass broader societal and environmental goals.
