Soudal-QuickStep and AG Insurance-Soudal to test prototype safety tracker

Ghent University's Internet and Data Science Lab has created a prototype tracker that goes beyond current GPS solutions, combining rider positioning, automated incident detection and instant communication capabilities. Both the men and women's teams will test the technology in racing and training environments over the coming months, providing crucial feedback to refine the system before its targeted 2026 completion.

The project builds on Ghent University's four years of cycling safety innovation, including their work on the UCI's SafeR crash database and analytical tools. While these existing systems help organisers identify risks before and after races, the new tracker addresses a critical gap - real-time insight during competitions.

"Technology isn't the barrier - it's the key. The future of cycling relies on smart, integrated solutions developed hand-in-hand with riders and teams. That's how we make the sport safer, fairer, and better for everyone," said Prof. Dr. Steven Verstockt of Ghent University in a statement released by the team on Thursday.

The UGent tracker provides automated alerts, proximity detection, incident reporting, and instant communication between riders, teams, and race officials. This comprehensive approach promises multiple benefits: enhanced race data for fans and broadcasters, clearer communication for team cars, better tools for commissaires, and deeper post-race analysis.

Development is already well underway, with a working prototype and monitoring dashboard created alongside a hardware partner. Over 500 cycling community members have contributed to a survey that will guide further refinements.

Selected riders and staff from both teams will participate in a dedicated workshop in late June to evaluate the device's design and features. Real-world testing begins this summer, with additional trials planned during the teams' December training camp in Calpe, Spain.

Soudal Quick-Step and AG Insurance-Soudal CEO Jurgen Foré emphasised the importance of rider safety: "The management of both our high-profile teams takes rider safety and wellbeing extremely seriously. We actively collaborate across the cycling ecosystem - with race organisers, federations such as the UCI and Belgian Cycling, and fellow teams - to drive meaningful progress on safety."

Foré added that this project complements their existing safety initiatives: "At the same time, we focus on what we can do internally: from increasing rider visibility with high-visibility kit, to testing protective gear and airbags during training, and now supporting the development of UGent's safety tracker. Our goal is clear: to help create a safer, more responsible sport and to protect the health and integrity of our riders."

For the tracker to achieve maximum impact, it will require cooperation from cycling federations to potentially become a standard or regulated component of professional racing. Funding models are still under consideration as stakeholders determine how to share the investment across the sport.