Patrick Lefevere will step down as CEO of Soudal Quick-Step on 31st December 2024, marking the end of a two-decade tenure at the helm of one of professional cycling’s most successful teams. The Belgian, who founded the team in 2003, will be succeeded by current COO Jurgen Foré. Lefevere will remain involved as an honorary board member.
“It is a life-changing moment to leave a role that I have committed so much of my life to,” Lefevere said, reflecting on his departure. “Cycling is a sport that I am still deeply passionate about, and it has been a great honour to head up this beautiful team and make so many special memories.”
Foré to step into leadership
Jurgen Foré, who joined Soudal Quick-Step at the start of 2024 after a career in business, including as a partner at Deloitte, will assume the role of CEO. Over the past year, Foré has developed relationships with sponsors, partners, and team staff, which Lefevere cited as a key factor in his readiness for the position.
Foré acknowledged the legacy left by his predecessor, stating: “Patrick Lefevere has been a figurehead in professional cycling, who all have great respect and admiration for. He has built a firm base and stability that has seen this team grow for over two decades. I will now look to lead this team, working towards securing its long-term future.”
The new CEO is committed to maintaining the team’s momentum while integrating his business expertise to sustain and expand its success. Foré will also collaborate with the newly formed executive board, which includes majority shareholder Zdenek Bakala, long-time legal counsel Auret Van Zyl, and Lefevere himself.
A legacy of victories and loyalty
Under Lefevere’s leadership, Soudal Quick-Step achieved unparalleled success, amassing nearly 1,000 wins, including 22 Monuments, 1 Grand Tour title, and 124 Grand Tour stage victories. The team also celebrated 19 World Championship golds, 3 Olympic gold medals, and 4 European Championships.
Beyond the results, Lefevere cultivated a unique team culture. Known as “The Wolfpack,” the team became synonymous with collective racing and loyalty. Many staff members have remained with the team since its early days, a rarity in professional cycling. Sometimes controversial in his column, particularly with regards to comments about women’s cycling, Lefevere is one of the pillars of the non-riding side of the men’s peloton.
Majority shareholder Zdenek Bakala praised Lefevere’s contributions: “Patrick has often spoken of the hard work of his staff and the riders, but that is fostered by the figurehead at the top. We should not underestimate the way Patrick has built a culture that allows those riders and staff to thrive.”
A new chapter begins
Lefevere expressed confidence in the team’s future under Foré’s leadership. “When I started to work with Jurgen one year ago, it was with a view to smoothing out the transition for when I would eventually leave,” he explained. “I know that with Jurgen taking over as CEO and with the board’s backing, this team has a bright future.”
Meanwhile, Foré is focused on continuing the team’s legacy while strengthening its foundation. “I understand and feel how special this organisation is, and I will do everything in my power to take care of it,” he said. “By combining my experience in business with my involvement in cycling, I am confident that I can build a structure that will take Soudal Quick-Step from strength to strength.”
