Alpecin-Deceuninck Secures Last-Minute Sponsorship Continuation, Averting Team Restructuring
A potential crisis has been averted for the Alpecin-Deceuninck cycling team as Deceuninck appears poised to continue its title sponsorship, ensuring the team’s stability for the upcoming season. This unexpected progress follows months of uncertainty after Deceuninck initially stepped back from its co-main sponsor role earlier this year, threatening significant roster changes and the team’s competitive future.
the continuation of Deceuninck’s support is a critical lifeline for the Roodhooft brothers’ team, which relies heavily on sponsorship revenue to retain top riders like Mathieu van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen. The initial loss of Deceuninck’s financial backing prompted the departure of several mid-tier cyclists as the team sought to manage a reduced budget.The team’s UCI license submission still lists Deceuninck, signaling the ongoing commitment.
Earlier this year, the withdrawal of Deceuninck as a co-main sponsor presented a ample challenge. The team faced a difficult search for a replacement, with time dwindling as the end of the season approached. This situation raised concerns about the team’s ability to maintain its current level of competitiveness and retain its star athletes.
The potential for Deceuninck to remain involved emerged as a surprise, according to reports from Het Laatste Nieuws. The arrangement would encompass both the men’s Alpecin-Deceuninck team and the women’s Fenix-Deceuninck squad.
While official confirmation from the team is pending,Deceuninck’s continued sponsorship could serve as a temporary measure while a new primary sponsor is secured. This development provides a crucial period of stability, allowing the team to focus on its sporting objectives without the immediate pressure of a complete overhaul.