BORA-hansgrohe has confirmed an agreement to terminate Belgian cyclist Cian Uijtdebroeks’ contract, enabling his move to Visma | Lease a Bike for the upcoming season. This resolution comes after a period of uncertainty and controversy surrounding the transfer.
Ralph Denk, Team Manager of BORA-hansgrohe, expressed mixed emotions about the agreement. He was initially surprised by the request for a transfer but maintained his openness to negotiations. Denk emphasised the importance of fair and rule-abiding transfers in the sport. He is pleased that the situation has been resolved through personal discussion and hopes this remains an isolated incident within the cycling community. Denk also clarified that accusations of bullying against the BORA-hansgrohe team did not come from Uijtdebroeks.
The UCI has urgently approved the termination, marking the end of Uijtdebroeks’ contract with BORA-hansgrohe on 31st December 2023. The team has wished Uijtdebroeks well in his future endeavours. Uijtdebroeks, who has set his sights on the Giro d’Italia next year, made his intentions clear during the Visma | Lease a Bike team presentation.
The transfer dispute had generated significant attention, with criticisms directed at both BORA-hansgrohe for insisting on Uijtdebroeks’ stay and at Visma manager Richard Plugge for his handling of the contract situation. The allegations of bullying during the Vuelta a España had added to the complexity of the case.
Plugge, while speaking with WielerFlits, confirmed Uijtdebroeks’ role in the team for the coming year. He expressed satisfaction with the resolution of the matter, which he believes is beneficial for all parties involved. Plugge chose not to delve deeper into the details but acknowledged the importance of reaching a good agreement.
