Having spent five successful seasons with the team from 2012 to 2016, John Degenkolb is set to return home to Team DSM, signing a contract that will see him ride in the team’s distinctive two keep challenging striped jersey once again until at least the end of 2024.
The team had some of their great highlights in their Degenkolb era, taking two incredible Monument victories in 2015 at Milano – Sanremo and Paris – Roubaix, alongside ten Vuelta a España stage wins, the points jersey at the same race and stage success at the Giro d’Italia; just to name a few of his 36 victories with the team. Returning to Team DSM in 2022, Degenkolb aims to put his wealth of experience into effect as part of the team’s sprint train and classics block, while also being part of the group that hunts stage success in Grand Tours.
On joining Team DSM Degenkolb expressed: “I had a great time with the team previously and we have always remained good friends as I made my journey through the peloton. Their development over the years is impressive. The team is about honesty; they deliver everything they promise and they expect the same the other way around, which makes them unique. They are driven, forward thinking and wholeheartedly focused on the commitment of doing things together – with colleagues on and off the bike. I really believe that this is the perfect approach to get the best out of our potential and bring home results in a sustainable way. I’m really looking forward to re-immersing myself back into this culture, integrating into the sprint train and the classics block, and being part of the group that hunts stage results in a Grand Tour. Personally, I also have the ambition to grow into the role as a road captain and the team is the perfect place for me to do that.”
Team DSM head of coaching Rudi Kemna added: “We’re delighted to have John back in the team with us. We really enjoyed our time together before and we’re looking forward to building on that in the coming years. Someone of John’s experience is crucial for both the hectic moments in a race, but also to help to push each other to be better outside of the race. As part of our sprint train and classics block, John will strengthen our capacity, guiding the team as we fight for results throughout the season. We believe he can also share his knowledge from his years in performing at the highest level of cycling with our talented young riders, helping to set a strong example for them and be an important culture carrier.”
