Van Gils terminates contract and is on a collision course with Lotto Dstny

A plot twist in the cycling peloton. Maxim Van Gils, who in March extended and improved his contract with Lotto Dstny, has now expressed that he wants to dissolve that same contract. The Belgian rider from Antwerp had an agreement valid until the end of 2026, but has indicated via a registered letter that he wants to leave immediately. This decision is sure to dominate discussions in the cycling world in the coming period. Finding a new team seems unlikely to be an issue – his phone will undoubtedly be ringing off the hook. However, the 24-year-old Belgian will first need to reach a resolution with his current team.

At Lotto Dstny, they are not amused with the way Van Gils is forcing his departure. The team has previously indicated they do not wish to cooperate with an early transfer and appears to maintain that stance. This could mean that a legal solution becomes inevitable. While Van Gils ultimately has the right to change employers – a basic right for European workers – such a legal procedure could take months. Van Gils’ decision is notable, as it could lead to a long and painful process.

Finding a new team, however, should not be difficult. The Belgian is among the most promising riders and had a strong 2024 season. He finished third in both Strade Bianche and La Flèche Wallonne, fourth in Liège-Bastogne-Liège and the GP Montreal, and seventh in Milan-San Remo. As a result, he was ranked fourteenth in the UCI standings, indicating a bright future for the 24-year-old rider. The only question that remains is which team that future will be with.