The cycling world is abuzz with a potential game-changer! SD Worx-Protime might have just secured the most significant transfer of the year, and it's got everyone talking.
In this week's Wheel Talk newsletter, we delve into the story behind this move and its impact on the sport. But first, a quick update on the newsletter's schedule: after this edition, there will be a brief hiatus for the holidays, and the newsletter will return in February when the cycling season is in full swing.
Now, onto the main event: the transfer market was seemingly quiet, but SD Worx-Protime has ignited it with a move that could shape the upcoming season. The team has signed Lotte Kopecky, a rider with an impressive resume. Kopecky's decision to join the team and aim for general classification contention is a bold one, especially after a challenging 2025 season.
Kopecky's 2025 campaign was highly anticipated, given her near-win at the Giro d'Italia Donne in 2024 and her second-place finish at the 2023 Tour de France Femmes. However, her season was marred by injuries and setbacks. She started strong with a win at the Tour of Flanders, a race she had previously won in 2023 and 2022. But a back injury at the Giro and an ongoing knee issue took a toll.
In a revealing interview, Kopecky discussed her physical struggles. She admitted that her winter training was hindered by a lingering knee injury, which continued to affect her during the Spring Classics. The back injury not only forced her out of the Giro but also dashed her hopes of wearing the yellow jersey at the Tour de France Femmes.
Here's where it gets personal: Kopecky emotionally recalled her disappointment at the Tour de France Femmes, where she realized her body wasn't cooperating. She said, 'I wasn't even at 50% of my usual level.' This led to a difficult decision: to step back from GC contention, at least for now.
But here's where it gets controversial—Kopecky's decision to shift focus might spark debate. She revealed that her body went into 'conservation mode,' causing her to starve herself without losing weight. This raises questions about the physical demands on riders and the fine line between pushing for success and risking health.
The 2025 season had its bright spots, though, with the Flanders win being a highlight. Kopecky acknowledged that without that victory, the season could have been much worse. As for the future, a Tour bid isn't entirely ruled out, but it's not the primary focus. Kopecky is looking ahead to 2026 with renewed determination.
Now, let's talk transfers: Nienke Vinke, a rising star, will join SD Worx-Protime in 2026. Vinke's impressive results, including a second-place finish at the 2024 Tour Down Under and strong performances in the Vuelta a España Femenina and European Championships, have caught everyone's attention. She's a valuable addition to the team's climbing prowess and long-term plans, especially after the departure of Demi Vollering.
Sports director Danny Stam believes Vinke has the potential to become a GC contender in major stage races and perform well in the Ardennes Classics. With three years ahead of her at SD Worx-Protime, Vinke has ample time to develop under the guidance of seasoned riders.
Other transfer news includes Premier Tech becoming a title sponsor of Fenix in 2026, and the team announcing new signings like Lotte Claes and Fien Van Eynde. The cycling action continues with the Tour Down Under in 39 days, where we'll hear from Australian voices on the podcast.
Speaking of the podcast, I had a fantastic chat with Ellen van Dijk about her retirement, her final season, and her exciting future plans. Stay tuned for a written piece on this inspiring story.
As always, we strive to bring you the best cycling insights. Did we hit the mark with this newsletter? Let us know in the comments, and feel free to share your thoughts on Kopecky's decision and the future of women's cycling. We love hearing from our passionate community!
