Lidl Trek has decided to bet on German climber Ricarda Bauernfeind by signing her to a contract that will engage her for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. Coming from CANYON//SRAM zondacrypto, the 25-year-old athlete made herself known to the general public by finishing fifth in the 2023 Vuelta Femenina and winning the stage with a finish in Albi during the Tour de Femmes of the same year 2023. The following year, her performance was affected by some physical issues, while this season she returned to racing, securing a placement in the German national championship and narrowly missing the top ten in a couple of Tour de France stages.

"Ricarda's talent is clear and, although the last two seasons have not been particularly brilliant, we believe she can return to her best and improve further. At only 25 years old, she still has plenty of time to grow, and we will provide her with the right environment, experience, and support to help her maximize her potential. I am confident that we will see her winning again with the Lidl-Trek jersey," said Luca Guercilena, General Manager of Lidl Trek.

Bauernfeind, meanwhile, said: "Lidl-Trek believes in me, even after a season marked by injuries and fewer results. I am incredibly motivated to learn from the best in the world and give everything I have for this team. I have confidence that we will grow together; I feel I have potential that I have not yet been able to express, especially in stage races." And further: "I have always admired Lidl Trek, the team's professionalism and vision. Particularly their commitment to athlete development. A new chapter of my career with new challenges and opportunities awaits me."

The market movements between German and American teams are not over yet. In recent days, Human Powered Health announced signing a two-year agreement with Polish rider Marta Jaskulska, who will leave Ceratizit Pro Cycling at the end of the season. "I am excited about this opportunity with Human Powered Health. I will find some of my friends in the team and an atmosphere that I like," commented the 25-year-old native of Biskupiec, who will find her compatriots Daria and Wiktoria Pikulik in the new team.