Louis Vervaijk scored the highest level in the Giro last season. At Sestola, he missed the podium, but took 20th place in the general classification.
That feat hasn’t escaped Deceuninck-Quick-Step: With a contract until 2023, it’s luring the 28-year-old climber away from Alpecin-Fenix. Manager Patrick Lefevre explains his pick: “In the long-term, we’re aiming for an all-around victory in a Grand Tour and then we need strong climbers on the team.”
“Lewis has many qualities, he can help our leaders go up, he can take his chance. Hopefully, he can develop even more with our team.”
For Vervaeke, it’s a childhood dream come true. “Every rider looks forward to this team,” he says. “When I was young, I rode in a blue shirt against my friends and brother in the street. It’s unbelievable that I can now wear this shirt in the pro peloton.”
“I hope to be able to improve my climbing qualities in the coming years. I will help the leaders wherever I can. You feel this is a special team, it’s family and that appeals to me hugely for next season.”
Vervaeke turned pro in 2014 at Lotto Belisol, later at Lotto Soudal. After an adventure with the Sunweb team, he traveled to Alpecin-Fenix last season.
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