Soudal Quick-Step announces its collaboration with Hagens Berman Axeon: two organizations that unite with the common goal of developing young talent and creating the best possible pathway to the highest level of professional cycling.

This collaboration marks the union of two programs that have shaped the careers of some of the greatest names in this sport, but its origins date back long before today's announcement.

Long before becoming leaders of two of the most respected cycling teams, Soudal Quick-Step CEO Jurgen Foré and Hagens Berman Axeon owner Axel Merckx were teammates at ASLK-CGER Eddy Merckx Vrienden, one of the first true development teams in professional cycling. These early experiences helped forge the conviction in both that young riders thrive when given the right time, guidance, and environment to grow. Decades later, this shared philosophy has become the foundation of a partnership designed to help the next generation follow the same path.

Under the agreement, Hagens Berman Axeon will join forces with Soudal Quick-Step Development, creating an even clearer pathway for young talents aspiring to the WorldTour. Riders will benefit from close integration with the Wolfpack's performance program, while coaches and staff from both organizations will work in synergy in areas such as training, sports science, testing, and rider development.

The agreement also secures the long-term future of Hagens Berman's commitment to rider development. The company will continue to be a major sponsor of the Soudal Quick-Step Devo Team, ensuring the continuity of one of the most respected development programs in cycling.

The partnership strengthens Soudal Quick-Step's existing development ecosystem, complementing the work already done through the Soudal Quick-Step Devo Team and the team's relationships with satellite squads throughout Europe, helping promising young riders of all ages take important steps toward a professional career.

The bond between the organizations is already reflected in the careers of several riders currently under contract with Soudal Quick-Step. Jasper Stuyven, who now races for Soudal Quick-Step, was developed under Axel Merckx's guidance before reaching the WorldTour, and is among the many riders whose careers demonstrate the value of a structured development pathway and support.

Speaking about the partnership, Jurgen Foré stated: "When Axel and I raced together as teenagers, we never would have imagined that one day we would lead teams with such a shared vision. Looking back now, those years taught us how important the right environment is for young cyclists. This partnership aims to create opportunities. We want talented riders to grow step by step, supported by people who understand the challenges—both sporting and personal—of becoming a professional cyclist. Both Hagens Berman Axeon and Team Soudal Quick-Step Devo have built excellent reputations for developing young cyclists as athletes and as individuals, and together we can offer an even stronger pathway to the WorldTour."

Similarly, Axel Merckx added: "Jurgen and I have known each other since we were young cyclists, so this partnership feels completely natural to us. We both experienced the importance of solid development programs and have both dedicated our careers to helping the next generation. Joining forces with Soudal Quick-Step allows us to build on everything we've created over the past two decades, while also giving our riders access to one of the best training environments in professional cycling. We're excited about what we can achieve together".

And Steve Berman, managing partner of Hagens Berman, stated: "We are proud that Hagens Berman's long-term support of this program has led to today's announcement, a natural step in advancing rider development into the future. I have always believed in creating a pathway for young cyclists who want to enter the world of cycling, and seeing this system transform promising athletes into WorldTour professionals for over a decade is proof of that".