After a few weeks of suspense for the succession of Sven Vanthourenhout at the head of the Belgian Cycling team, we now know the new national coach. It is about Serge Pauwelswho was expected to take over. Former runner for 16 seasons, passed through Sky or even Omega Pharma – Quick Step, Pauwels retired from sport in 2020. The 40-year-old then became coach of the Belgian team in the Junior category before being officially announced, this Wednesday, coach of the Belgian Elites and Espoirs teams.
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“One of the strongest generations of Belgian runners”
“It is a great honor for me to be able to take on this role, especially since we have one of the strongest generations of Belgian runners”tell Serge Pauwels. “I look forward to creating an ideal environment for the riders, but also for the staff, which will allow us to excel as a team. I am also looking forward to seeing the juniors that I have supported in recent seasons in team in the higher categories in the years to come and discover their journey” he adds.
The president of the Belgian federation, Tom Van Dammealso spoke about this choice. “We do not want the number of medals in Belgian cycling to decrease in the years to come. We are convinced that we will be able to consolidate it thanks to this new structure. Within our operations, we are certainly not going to make savings at the level of high-level sport.” the president said. Facing Pauwelsother men hoped for this position, including Philippe Gilbertthe former world champion.
