Dutch time trial champion will represent Lidl-Trek for the next three seasons
Lidl-Trek is delighted to announce the first addition to its women’s team: Dutch time trial champion Riejanne Markus, who will ride with the team until 2027. One of the strongest riders from the Netherlands, Markus has already demonstrated her strength and versatility throughout her impressive career. After turning pro at Parkhotel Valkenburg, Markus has claimed 11 professional victories over the past decade. Her numerous accolades include three national titles – two in time trial and one in road race – and she has consistently performed excellently in the most prestigious Classics and Grand Tours. This season, Markus delivered a standout performance at the Vuelta a España, finishing second overall.
(Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty Images)
When Markus spoke about her upcoming transfer, she expressed her excitement and high expectations for the future:
“I’m really excited to join Lidl-Trek,” says Markus. “For years I’ve admired their pioneering role in women’s cycling and the fact that they offer the same level of support as their men’s team; that has inspired me deeply. I’ve always been attracted to well-organized teams and Lidl-Trek is known for just that. Plus, the atmosphere among the riders and staff is fantastic and I can’t wait to be a part of it.”
“I’m especially excited to be racing with new equipment. Trek is known for making world-class bikes and their aerodynamic, lightweight road bikes and exceptional time trial bikes are a big reason why I decided to join the team. I have big goals for the coming seasons, especially the overall ranking in stage races and outstanding performances in time trials. The European Time Trial Championship and the World Time Trial Championship are important goals for me, as are the Tour de France, the Vuelta a España and the hilly classics like Strade Bianche and Liège-Bastogne-Liège, which perfectly match my strengths.”
(Photo by Bas Czerwinski/Getty Images)
Luca Guercilena, General Manager of Lidl-Trek, welcomed Markus with great enthusiasm and highlighted her potential as an individual and as part of the team.
“Riejanne has proven to be a real force in both one-day and stage races and we have seen her make great progress over the last few seasons. She is a rider whose ambition matches our team’s drive and we are confident she will continue to make great progress with Lidl-Trek. Our R&D investment in aerodynamics will give her the tools she needs to perform even better, especially in time trials.
“Her qualities on the bike – climbing and time trialling – will complement the rest of the team well and allow us to succeed in a variety of situations. Bringing her to Lidl-Trek will make us more competitive throughout the season, from the classics to the grand tours.”
With Markus on board, Lidl-Trek is looking forward to an exciting season in which the team continues to gain strength and depth.
