Cian Uijtdebroeks unveiled as a Visma-Lease a Bike rider at team presentation

Belgian rider on stage despite contract dispute with Bora-Hansgrohe

13:47, Thursday 21st December 2023

Daniel Benson

Editor in Chief

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Cian Uijtdebroeks

Cian Uijtdebroeks has been unveiled as a Visma-Lease a Bike rider for 2024 at the team's presentation, despite his continued contract dispute with Bora-Hansgrohe.

The development continues the most controversial and messy transfer saga of the year, after the Belgian rider terminated his contract with Bora-Hansgrohe with a year remaining on his deal and signed for Visma-Lease a Bike for the next four seasons.

Uijtdebroeks terminated his contact with Bora-Hansgrohe on December 1, but the German team disputed the matter, stating that the rider still has a contract with the team for 2024.

Following a flurry of activity, stories began to emerge claiming that Uijtdebroeks had been bullied during his two seasons at Bora. These were flatly denied by the team, with no comment made by the rider himself.

"Last week I was with the team on training camp and it was a really nice atmosphere and I’m really happy to be here,” he said during his on-stage appearance.

“It’s a really structured team and everyone is trying to get the maximum out of what we do and with a smile. That’s what I was searching for. This is the best team to develop as a Grand Tour rider.”

Uijtdebroeks also confirmed that he would target the overall at the Giro d’Italia next year, a race he had been pencilled in to ride for Bora in 2024.

"The Giro will be my second Grand Tour in my life. I’m really looking forward to that race. We have an ambition there to win stages and for myself, I want to be good in the GC. I have a free role there."

Visma team boss Richard Plugge stated that a resolution had been reached with Bora-Hansgrohe.

GCN understands that talks had taken place between both squads earlier this week.

'“There is a happy ending to the whole thing, I think that is the most important thing," Plugge said

"He was on stage here and we are very happy with that. And himself too. This is a very good outcome for all parties. Was I shocked by the noise? No, I don't get scared that often anymore. Is Bora also happy with this? You have to ask them that," he said, according to Het Nieuwsblad.