‘Mathieu was happy for me’ - Vermeersch departs Van der Poel to boost Red Bull's classics firepower

Gianni Vermeersch has become part of the furniture at Alpecin-Deceuninck ever since the former cyclocross star’s arrival, to a then predominantly cross team, known as Corendon-Circus spearheaded by the spirited Mathieu van der Poel. 

In that time, Vermeersch has formed a dynamic partnership with the flying Dutchman, which has culminated in an abundance of success for the Alpecin-Deceuninck team. In particular, Vermeersch played a big role in monument victories for Van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen at Milan-San Remo, Tour of Flanders, and Paris-Roubaix, as well as finishing 7th and 6th at the latter two, respectively. The Belgian also featured in the last two lineups at the Tour de France for the team, where five stage victories have been accrued by his teammates.

At 32 years old, the former gravel World Champion is still in the height of his powers, and Red-Bull-BORA-hansgrohe, a team undergoing a significant overhaul, have seen the high value in Vermeersch and has acquired his services for 2026, putting an end to a successful nine years at Alpecin-Deceuninck.

Naturally, after many years in the same environment, Vermeersch is both nervous and excited for the change, and explained his feelings in an interview with Wielerflits.

"Initially, it was seen as a surprise, of course, but overall, I've received positive reactions. I've been pleasantly surprised myself,” said Vermeersch to Wielerflits

"What surprises me? Simply that I'm changing teams after all this time. That came as a surprise to me, too," said Vermeersch. "It's a new challenge at a later stage in my career. I'm really looking forward to it."

Vermeersch values his ability to play a team role, insisting on the importance of a united squad, like he experienced at Alpecin-Deceuninck, rather than a team scattered with individuals pulling in different directions. 

"Last year, there were mainly strong individuals, but that doesn't always make for a strong team. I hope to contribute something to that with experience."

The classics campaign wasn’t particularly successful for the German team in 2025, but Vermeersch isn’t concerned and believes in the project for the coming seasons, with the team and sponsors showing plenty of ambition, having already signed his compatriot Remco Evenepoel for the new season ahead.

"Of course, it does create some uncertainty, but as far as we can see now, that's why they brought me on the team. To bring some experience to the classics," Vermeersch explained.

When asked about the prospect of racing against Van der Poel rather than together, Vermeersch revealed that the Dutch star has been supportive of the Belgian in his decision, and that their relationship as friends won’t change at all.

"He [Mathieu] reacted quite positively, too. He was happy for me too. Just because I'm leaving the team doesn't mean it'll change anything in our relationship,” said Vermeersch, who also acknowledged the daunting challenge of having to compete against Van der Poel, saying, "Hmm, I think Mathieu will be tough to beat."