A year after retiring, Annemiek van Vleuten is returning to professional cycling as a performance mentor for FENIX-Deceuninck. The announcement was made by the Belgian team during a press conference hosted in FENIX Scenario in Milan.
“I’ll observe the athletes and work closely with them and their coaches to reach their maximum potential. I became who I am through a laborious process of trials and errors, gradually building greater confidence in myself. The role I’ll represent for FENIX-Deceuninck cyclists aims to accelerate this process for each of them,” explained Van Vleuten.
The 42-year-old former pro rider said that in the final years of her career she knew she wanted to work with professional athletes and cyclist. “When Philip Roodhooft approached me about joining FENIX-Deceuninck, I was surprised but quickly impressed by the professionalism and their commitment to both performance and the human side of the sport.”
“This year, I experienced observing cycling from the other side as TV commentator. Now I have, ina small way, the opportunity to put my experience at the service of the growth of the women’s movement, perfectly embodied by FENIX-Deceuninck, whose professionalism and management by Philip Roodhooft I really appreciate. Women’s cycling is growing strongly, now there’s even the Professional category and quality is less and less concentrated in a few teams. It will be fun, and we’re here for it!”
Known for her unmatched mindset and professional approach, the former two-time World Champion will guide riders to achieve their full potential. Her expertise and leadership will be pivotal in refining both individual and collective performances, as FENIX-Deceuninck continues to compete at the highest level.
In her 16-year-long career, Van Vleuten won 104 races, including two road and two TT World Championships, four Giro Donne, one Tour de France Femmes and La Vuelta Femenina.
