Dutch climber embarks on new adventure with Lidl-Trek
Lidl-Trek is thrilled to announce the signing of 28-year-old Sam Oomen, who has signed a three-year contract that will see him don the Lidl-Trek jersey through 2026. Oomen, a renowned climbing domestique, brings a wealth of experience and a history of contributing to overall victories at prestigious races like the Vuelta a España and Giro d’Italia. The transfer is a significant milestone for Oomen, who will not only change team, but also his supermarket allegiance as he makes the switch to the Lidl-sponsored squad.
“When I turned professional I already had the pleasure to meet Luca,” explained Sam Oomen. “Back then, I chose to sign for Team Giant Alpecin, but meeting Luca and talking with him has always left me with a good feeling towards him and his team. As far as I can assess it really feels like the right team and right place at the right time for me, for which I’m really grateful and excited.
“During my years with Sunweb and Jumbo I learnt a lot about myself and understand what works for me to get the best out of myself, both mentally and physically. Besides that I simply also learnt a lot about cycling in general, which I hope can contribute to making Lidl-Trek the best team possible.”
“I hope to be a bit more consistent again. After my injury and some rough crashes I for sure had some good moments but lacked the consistency required to step up another level. For sure my strength lays in the hilly stage races and I have a big love for the long hilly classics. Lidl-Trek has for sure some big players to compete for the biggest prizes in these races and if I can contribute to this goal I would be super happy.
“There are several Lidl-Trek riders that I’m looking forward to being teammates with, but if I have to name one or two; Bauke Mollema has always been an inspirational rider for me who I really appreciate. It’s a privilege to ride with him during the last years of his career. Next to that I’ve always have had a good connection with Tao Geoghegan Hart, who I’ve already known since we raced as juniors. Being teammates with him after all these years racing together and against each other is really exciting.
“2024 would be a success for me if I am able to contribute to the teams successes and biggest goals. For sure it would be nice to get a result for myself but above all I just want to give my best on and off the bike, whatever the outcome may be. Normally my strongest years are still ahead of me and with the right mindset, environment and consistency I hope it can create some nice things.”
Lidl-Trek General Manager Luca Guercilena welcomed the arrival of Sam to the Team: “I met with Sam several years ago as a young rider on the start of his journey as a professional cyclist. Whilst he raced for a different team, meeting him left a positive impression and of course I have followed his progression over the years. We’ve seen Sam ride as an important helper for his leaders in Grand Tours, including being on the winning team twice. It’s our hope that he can help us to do the same in the future.”
