Photo via Cyclingnews

Lucinda Brand ready for 'exciting new chapter' on the road as she announces Lidl-Trek departure in wake of Luca Guercilena's exit

World cyclo-cross champion Lucinda Brand has confirmed her departure from Lidl-Trek after seven years, marking the end of a successful era that included multiple road victories. Brand cited the departure of former team manager Luca Guercilena—a key figure in her return to competitive form—as a pivotal reason for her move, though she expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities and support she received during her tenure.

The Dutch rider, who has won 10 road races since rejoining the sport in 2021, including the Tour de Suisse and Thüringen Ladies Tour, will now shift focus to a new road team in 2027 while extending her winter contract with Baloise-Het Poetsbureau Lions for two more seasons under team manager Sven Nys. Nys, credited with reigniting her passion for cycling, also played a crucial role in facilitating her transition to Lidl-Trek earlier in her career, where she secured two rainbow jerseys in cyclo-cross and rebuilt her winning momentum on the road.

Brand’s decision reflects a rare blend of professional opportunity and personal loyalty, as she prioritized continuity with Nys—a relationship that has defined her recent success—over remaining with Lidl-Trek. Her road team announcement is expected next week, though she remains committed to defending her 2023 world title and other recent accolades, including the UCI World Cup and X2O Badkamers Trofee, in the upcoming cyclo-cross season starting this weekend at HG Cross Dendermonde.

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