In a significant development for the Dutch cycling team currently known as DSM-Firmenich, team manager Iwan Spekenbrink has not only secured the team’s future for the next three years but has also strengthened its position within the WorldTour peloton. Sources close to the matter confirmed to WielerFlits that an agreement had been reached with PostNL to become a co-sponsor until the end of 2026, with an official announcement expected in the coming days. The team, which will feature Fabio Jakobsen and Romain Bardet as flag bearers in the upcoming season, is set to see an increase in its operational budget.
Insiders reveal that DSM-Firmenich and PostNL will be equal primary sponsors, propelling the team’s budget into the higher echelons of the WorldTour. This collaboration marks a financial high point for Spekenbrink’s team since its inception, especially significant given the budget inflation in cycling due to the investments by billionaire Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS Grenadiers and other teams backed by oil dollars, such as UAE Emirates and Bahrain – Victorious.
PostNL’s Impact on Dutch Cycling
The entry of PostNL into Spekenbrink’s outfit is viewed as a positive move for Dutch cycling, signalling another major Dutch business investing in the sport. It is anticipated that the involvement will lead to a greater focus on Dutch and Belgian riders across the WorldTeam, development team, and women’s team in the forthcoming period.
DSM-Firmenich, with its international market focus, is now joined by PostNL, a significant player in the Dutch and Belgian postal and package delivery market. The iconic orange colour of PostNL is expected to be featured prominently in the new team kit, according to sources.
It had been known for some time that PostNL, employing over 35,000 people, was exploring sponsorship opportunities in sports. The logistics company, headquartered in The Hague, favoured cycling due to its alignment with movement, sustainability, and accessibility to a broad audience. This affinity is underscored by the company’s employees, who, much like professional cyclists, ride through various weather conditions to deliver post across the Netherlands.
Team Roster Expansion
The team, henceforth known as Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL, has recruited 30 riders for its WorldTeam for 2024. In recent months, several Dutch cyclists have been signed, including Jakobsen, Gijs Leemreize, Timo Roosen, Julius van den Berg, and Bram Welten. Alongside sprinter Jakobsen, seasoned riders such as Bardet, Barguil, and Degenkolb form the core of the team. Young talents like Max Poole, Kevin Vermaerke, and Oscar Onley are expected to make significant strides in the coming years. The women’s team boasts notable names including Charlotte Kool, Pfeiffer Georgi, and Juliette Labous but appears to have its transfer dealings done for 2024. This might see them retain key talent in 2025 or make a blockbuster signing.
