Belgium’s Margot Vanpachtenbeke will step into the Women’s WorldTour with Lidl-Trek after signing a contract that runs through 2027. The 26-year-old has risen quickly through the professional ranks, having only started her career in 2023 with VolkerWessels, and is now set to join one of the sport’s biggest teams.
Vanpachtenbeke’s breakthrough came in 2024 at the Thüringen Ladies Tour, where she won the opening stage after a daring 57 km breakaway and spent four days in the leader’s jersey. Later that summer she delivered her best results to date at the Giro Toscana, taking victory on stage two before sealing the overall title the following day.
Those three wins across two respected European stage races not only highlighted her finishing speed but also her ability to manage a GC battle across multiple days. She also gained valuable experience at WorldTour level, including her debut at the Tour de France Femmes. Those performances caught the attention of Lidl-Trek, who have now given her the opportunity to continue her progression in a WorldTour set-up.
“It still feels a bit unreal, to be honest,” Vanpachtenbeke said. “I’ve only been racing for a few years, and now making the step to this dream team… that’s something I could hardly have imagined. I feel so honoured to wear the Lidl-Trek jersey for the next two seasons, and I’m super motivated to give my all. Knowing I’ll get the chance to learn from such experienced riders and staff is really special for me.”
Vanpachtenbeke added that Lidl-Trek has always been the team she admired most, citing its professional environment, attacking style of racing and long-term approach to rider development. “Before anything else, I want to get to know the people who make this team what it is, from the riders to every member of staff. I know I still have a lot to learn at pro level, so I’m looking forward to developing myself physically, mentally, and tactically. I want to discover where my limits are and how far I can go, while helping the team to achieve the best possible results.”
Lidl-Trek General Manager Luca Guercilena praised the Belgian’s rapid progress: “In the short time Margot has been in the professional ranks she has already shown impressive growth, not only physically but also with her tactical awareness and racing instincts. She is ambitious, eager to learn, and motivated to keep developing. At Lidl-Trek we can provide the platform for her to take the next step and continue unlocking her potential. We’re delighted to welcome her to the Team.”
