VolkerWessels Cycling Team have confirmed their first new signing for 2026, bringing in Dutch rider Vera Tieleman after an impressive year at Continental level with DD Group Pro Cycling.
The 28-year-old only took up cycling in 2020 after several years of rowing during her studies, and she has progressed quickly through the Dutch club and Continental scene. Alongside her racing, she has been working part-time as a medical doctor, carrying out health and fitness assessments for firefighters while also pursuing a master’s degree in exercise science. From 2026, however, she will focus fully on cycling as she steps up to the ProTeam level.
Speaking about the move, Tieleman said: “Over the past year, I’ve been introduced to racing at the highest level. It made me realise that there is still so much more for me to discover and learn. I’m looking forward to fully focusing on cycling. I truly believe that this is the right place for me to continue growing. After completing my medical studies, I chose a different path to pursue a career as a cyclist. I’m incredibly proud to have this opportunity and looking forward to next year.”
A rapid rise through the ranks
Tieleman’s 2025 season with DD Group Pro Cycling was her first at UCI Continental level, and she made the most of the opportunity. Consistently testing herself against stronger fields, she produced top-20 results at Antwerp Port Epic (15th), Acht van Chaam (20th), GP Immo Zone (20th), Paris-Roubaix (22nd) and Gent-Wevelgem (25th). She also placed 20th in the Dutch national time trial championships, showing an ability to handle both the Classics and timed efforts.
Although she is still waiting for a breakthrough podium, her steady progression across the spring and summer highlighted her potential. Importantly, her results in races such as the Ronde van Vlaanderen (31st) and Classic Brugge-De Panne (32nd) came in WorldTour company, underlining her capacity to compete at the highest level.
Looking ahead
VolkerWessels has built a reputation for developing riders ready to take the next step, and Tieleman fits neatly into that approach. Her blend of late entry into the sport, strong academic and medical background, and clear upward trajectory makes her one of the more intriguing signings for 2026.
The team will provide her with a full calendar of ProSeries and WorldTour opportunities, a platform she hasn’t had before. If her 2025 results are anything to go by, the coming year could see her turn consistency into contention and establish herself firmly in the professional peloton.
