Plugge never received so many messages after Rabobank announcement and quotes Van Aert: "That’s a huge compliment"

On Instagram, Plugge shared a post featuring himself, Visma | Lease a Bike team leader Wout van Aert, and Rabobank chairman Stefaan Decraene. "Last week, we announced Rabobank as a new partner for Visma | Lease a Bike. Rarely have I received so many messages with positive responses—riders who started their cycling careers wearing a Rabobank jersey as kids, colleagues, former pros, and many more."

"An unbelievable amount of messages," Plugge repeats, before quoting Van Aert. "As Wout put it: 'It was very brave to step away back then, because so many people looked the other way. But it’s even braver to return to your roots now.'”

"That’s a huge compliment for Rabobank and all stakeholders in the cycling world. I’m proud of what we have achieved together," Plugge continues. "Now, onto the next chapter, where we want to build for future generations and create a safer cycling environment. Growing together," he concludes.

In Utrecht, Plugge had already spoken proudly about Rabobank’s return. "When I first drove here a year and a half ago for my initial talks with Stefaan, I thought to myself: this feels familiar. The circle is complete, but the journey isn’t over yet. It’s truly fantastic. We had to endure some tough times, but now we are embraced once again. When we signed the deal, I even got a little emotional—or rather, very emotional. Because it’s just such a beautiful moment."