Visma | Lease a Bike says goodbye to Milan Vader in China: Punchy rider heads to Q36.5 Pro Cycling

Milan Vader’s new team will be Q36.5 Pro Cycling. The Dutch rider, who turned pro on the road with Visma | Lease a Bike in 2022, is leaving the team after three seasons. Vader has signed a two-year contract with the ambitious Swiss team, which is also reportedly interested in Tom Pidcock.

Vader won the 2023 Tour of Guangxi and made it clear at the Tour Down Under that he aimed to progress in stage races in 2024. However, that didn’t pan out, and the 28-year-old all-rounder didn’t see much action in bigger races this season. This week, he will attempt to defend his title in China. After that, his time with Visma | Lease a Bike comes to an end as he joins the ambitious Swiss team.

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Vader doesn’t hold back: "I’m excited to ride for my own chances"

He raced in events like the Tour of the Basque Country this season, but in those kinds of races, Vader often had to work for other riders. Now, that could change. "I’m really motivated to join Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team. If you look at the team and there’s a forward movement, the equipment is great and it looks super professional. I’m very much looking forward to getting more of my own chances."

Vader further elaborated on his racing profile: "I have a solid explosive sprint and can do really well in shorter races with an uphill finish. That sort of races suit me really well and I proved that last year in Guangxi. I believe I will get more opportunities and more freedom to achieve what I really want: win races!”

Team principal Doug Ryder is equally enthusiastic about the deal: "We are excited to welcome Milan Vader to the Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team. With a strong foundation in cross-country mountain biking, Milan has made remarkable strides since transitioning to road cycling. His explosive climbing skills will be a key asset to our team. Milan’s journey, especially his inspiring recovery from a serious crash two years ago, speaks to his resilience and determination. We believe he’s just at the start of an extraordinary road cycling career and we look forward to achieving great things together in the years ahead."