Wagner-Bazin returns to Continental level for 2026 under new leadership

Wagner-Bazin is set to return to the Continental ranks in 2026 following the premature end of the Belgian ProTeam Wagner Bazin WB, though with significant changes to its management structure and competition level according to information from directvelo.

Despite retaining the name, Philippe Wagner, founder of the charcuterie company that sponsors the team, will not continue with the project. A press release confirmed Geoffrey Coupé will assume full control as general manager of the revamped squad.

"For 2026, the project is evolving somewhat. Philippe Wagner will no longer be part of the team, following the sale of his company. We would like to sincerely thank him for his commitment and his essential role in the creation and development of this great adventure," the statement explained.

The new Continental outfit represents a return to familiar territory for both the team and Coupé. The two men previously collaborated when Wagner Bazin competed at Continental level during the 2024 season before its brief step up to ProTeam status.

For Coupé, this marks a continuation of his extensive management career in cycling, having previously guided teams including Doltcini-Flanders, Veranclassic, Naturablue, and Geofco Doltcini Matériel-vélo.com.

The team will maintain its Belgian license despite having French sponsorship. Operating under a CP3 Continental license, the squad must include at least ten riders under 23 years old within its planned 16-rider roster, which remains incomplete.

Wagner-Bazin's 2026 racing calendar will feature a mix of ProSeries events alongside 1.1 and 1.2 races. The team will also compete in the U23 Road Series and national interclub competitions, reflecting its development focus.

This restructuring comes after the original Wagner Bazin WB ProTeam project ended earlier than anticipated as it appeared to be a fall out between the owner and the general manager of the team, Christophe Brandt, who stated previously "I heard in June that Philippe Wagner was building a team behind my back. He even contacted some of our contract riders to join his new team.