Race news
Gianni Vermeersch strengthens Red Bull-Bora Classics squad
The Belgian all-rounder Gianni Vermeersch will open a new chapter in 2026 as he moves from Alpecin-Deceuninck to Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, where he is expected to strengthen the team’s Classics squad.
Free to read. No paywall.
Support our work and never miss
a story:
Favourite us on Google
Cor Vos
Vermeersch leaves Alpecin-Deceuninck after nine years, during which he collected several top-10 finishes in the Spring Classics and proved a valuable support rider for Mathieu van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen. During this period, he also made history in Veneto by becoming the first gravel world champion in 2022.
“With Gianni, we want to close the gaps that became apparent last spring,” explained Ralph Denk, CEO of Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, as he outlined the importance of his latest signing. “Our roster certainly has a lot of Classics quality. But we often lacked routine, depth, and punch to shape the finale with our talents. We are convinced that Gianni can make exactly this difference.”
The arrival of Vermeersch follows investments made last winter to bolster the Classics squad with signings such as Jan Tratnik, Gianni Moscon, Laurence Pithie, Oier Lazkano, and the Van Dijke brothers. Despite those reinforcements, Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe failed to make a real impact this spring, with Daniel Martínez’s seventh place at Liège-Bastogne-Liège standing out as the best result.
For Vermeersch, the move represents a major change after years within the same structures. “I’m really looking forward to this new chapter in my career,” he said. “After many years in the same environment, a whole new world is opening up for me. It’s an honor to join Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, and I’m excited to share my Classics experience with the younger riders.”
The signing of Vermeersch marks the third move by Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe for their 2026 squad, following the blockbuster arrival of Remco Evenepoel and the promotion of Callum Thornley from the development team.
