Lotto - Intermarché merger is official as team secures UCI WorldTour license for next three years

Lotto - Intermarché have officially confirmed the merger between the two teams ahead of 2026 after the UCI officially announced that both the men's and women's teams have received a license for the next three years.

The men's merger team has received a WorldTour license for 2026. Meanwhile, the women's team are registered in the ProTeam division.

"With the union of two historic Belgian teams, a powerful new chapter begins. Over the past few months, we worked tirelessly to build a solid and ambitious project," said Jean Francois Boulart, General Manager of Lotto - Intermarché. 

"The UCI's trust for the next three years confirms our direction and motivates us even more. We are proud of the recognition granted to our women's team as preparations continue, including our first training camp in Spain. The motivation within the entire group is already very strong."

The merger brings together two of Belgium's most established cycling structures, creating a team with ambitions to compete at the highest level while maintaining focus on developing young riders.

Kurt Van de Wouwer, Sports Manager at Lotto - Intermarché, highlighted the team's dual approach: "With team leaders supported by a strong core and experienced road captains, Lotto - Intermarché has the ambition to win races at the highest level. At the same time, we continue to invest in the development of young talent."

The development pathway has been a key success story for both organisations, with Van de Wouwer noting: "Talent development remains one of our key pillars in recent seasons. The two development teams together delivered more than 26 riders to the professional ranks. With our combined expertise, I am convinced Lotto-Wanty will remain one of the best continental development teams."

The new formation brings complementary strengths that team officials believe will create a stronger overall structure. Aike Visbeek explained the technical benefits of the merger: "From the start it was clear that both teams bring strong and complementary qualities. Lotto Cycling team has impressive scientific collaborations and deep knowledge in nutrition and physiology. Intermarche-Wanty contributes a highly structured approach, a strong R&D mindset and continuous technical innovation."

This combination of expertise is expected to propel the team forward across both men's and women's racing. "Combining these assets creates an exceptional performance platform. This unified approach gives us the tools to elevate the entire team to a higher level and prepare for long-term success," added Visbeek.

The women's team is already preparing for the upcoming season with their first training camp scheduled in Spain as part of the newly unified structure.