Transfer twist: Planckaert reverses Quick-Step move to stay with Van der Poel and Philipsen

The Belgian rider’s unexpected U-turn appears to stem from a simple change of heart between the parties involved. Planckaert, 30, had seemingly completed a deal to join the Wolfpack but will now continue with his current team.

“I was indeed planning to go to Soudal Quick-Step. As the season progressed and during the Vuelta, I felt where my place is and where I feel best. I acted too impulsively and started talking to Jurgen. We have agreed on this among ourselves, and this is the outcome,” said Planckaert to HLN.

“I’m grateful to remain part of the Alpecin-Deceuninck family,” he added. “Sometimes circumstances change, and ultimately this was the best solution for all parties.”

The unusual situation created a brief period of confusion in the transfer market, with Planckaert initially appearing on Soudal Quick-Step’s roster for the upcoming season before the reversal was confirmed.

Alpecin-Deceuninck management expressed satisfaction at retaining the Belgian, who has been with the team since 2021 after joining from Sport Vlaanderen–Baloise.

Planckaert, brother of Baptiste and Emiel Planckaert, has primarily served as a support rider during his time with Alpecin-Deceuninck. His biggest career victory came in 2021 with a stage win at the Vuelta a Burgos, while during the 2025 Vuelta a España he played a key role in Jasper Philipsen’s sprint train.

Neither team has provided extensive details about what led to the contract confusion, though such transfer complications have become increasingly common in recent seasons as teams negotiate complex deals amid financial pressures.

Soudal Quick-Step has not yet commented on the situation or announced any replacement signing to fill the roster spot previously allocated to Planckaert.

The Belgian will now continue to support Alpecin-Deceuninck leaders Mathieu van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen in the upcoming season. HLN reports that Planckaert’s vacant spot on the Soudal Quick-Step roster is expected to be filled by Laurenz Rex once the paperwork for the Lotto–Intermarché–Wanty merger is complete.