Soren Kragh Andersen is set to make a notable switch at the end of this season, departing from Alpecin-Deceuninck to join Lidl-Trek. This move is expected to bolster Lidl-Trek’s already formidable classics lineup. With his extensive experience and recent achievements, Andersen, a 30-year-old Danish rider, is poised to bring significant depth and competitive edge to his new team for the coming two years.
Andersen’s career highlights include a standout period with Team Sunweb, now known as DSM, where he celebrated two stage wins in the 2020 Tour de France. In 2023, his role at Alpecin-Deceuninck was crucial in supporting Mathieu van der Poel’s victories in the cobbled classics, including the Milano-Sanremo. His ability to contribute to major victories, combined with his robust performance in classics, makes him a valuable asset for Lidl-Trek.
Beyond the classics, Andersen’s proficiency in time trials allows him to perform well in general classifications at shorter stage races, such as the Renewi Tour, where he has previously finished in the top ten. This versatility means that his role at Lidl-Trek will not be limited to just the spring classics; he is also expected to compete strongly in various stage races where time trials play a significant role.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the move, Andersen remarked on Lidl-Trek’s rising status as a top team and his excitement about joining forces with leading Danish riders like Mads Pedersen and Mattias Skjelmose. He highlighted his eagerness to contribute to the team’s efforts in the spring classics and his aspiration to achieve personal victories, possibly in one of the Grand Tours, while enjoying the camaraderie with his new teammates.
Overall, Andersen’s transfer to Lidl-Trek represents a strategic enhancement for the team, offering a mix of experience and versatility that will be valuable across multiple racing scenarios. As he prepares for this new chapter, the cycling world will be keenly watching how his addition impacts Lidl-Trek’s performance in both the classic races and the Grand Tours.