New deal will see Bernard race his 11th and 12th seasons with Lidl-Trek
Lidl-Trek is pleased to announce a contract extension for French climber Julien Bernard. The new agreement will see Bernard continue with the Team through 2027, taking him into his 12th season as a Lidl-Trek rider—making him one of the longest-serving members of the squad.
Year after year, Bernard has earned his place through hard work, loyalty, and selfless riding. A dependable figure in the mountains, he is a trusted support for the Team’s GC leaders when the road turns steep. His ability extends beyond the climbs, however, as he has proven equally capable at chasing down breakaways or taking the wind at the front of the peloton.
When given the chance, Bernard has never hesitated to make the most of it. Over his career he has accumulated thousands of kilometers in breakaways, and in 2020 he was rewarded with a career highlight—his solo victory atop Mont Faron at the Tour des Alpes Maritimes et du Var, a memory that will stay with him forever.
It's really like my family. It feels a bit stupid to say, but after 10 years of course it’s more than a team, it’s something even stronger.
“The last few years had a lot of highlights for me,” said Julien Bernard. “Last year, the Tour de France passing close to my home came with lots of emotions and is one of the highlights of my career. It will be something I will remember for a long time.
“I think all the years speak for me, it’s a bit more than 10 years that I’ve worked with the Team. This is because I feel really good here, I’m super happy to be a part of this Team, to be a part of the development to become one of the best teams in the world. It really like my family. It feels a bit stupid to say, but after 10 years of course it’s more than a team, it’s something even stronger.
“I keep improving my level, it’s always motivating to push harder and get stronger every year so I can support the leaders as much as I can. We are winning more and more so it’s super motivating to be a part of this.”
“Julien has been a part of the family for a decade already,” said Luca Guercilena, Lidl-Trek General Manager. “Over the years, Julien has gained a wealth of experience, and it’s been rewarding to see him now sharing that with our younger riders. We are proud to continue this journey with him into his 11th and 12th years on the Team. Whether it’s on the climbs or on the flat, we know that Julien will always give 100%. He continues to push himself to improve every season, and his commitment sets an example for the whole squad.”
