Dutch Time Trial Champion will represent Lidl-Trek for the next three seasons
Lidl-Trek is thrilled to announce the first addition to its women’s team roster: Dutch Time Trial Champion Riejanne Markus, who will be riding with the Team through 2027. Markus, one of the strongest riders to come out of the Netherlands, has already proven her strength and versatility over the course of her impressive career. After turning professional with Parkhotel Valkenburg, Markus has gone on to secure 11 professional victories over the past decade. Among her many accolades, she boasts three national titles – two in the time trial and one in the road race – and has consistently excelled in the most prestigious Classics and Grand Tours. This season, Markus delivered an outstanding performance in the Vuelta a España, finishing second overall.
(Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty Images)
Speaking about her upcoming transfer, Markus expressed her excitement and high expectations for the future:
“I couldn’t be more excited to join Lidl-Trek,” Markus shared. “For years, I’ve admired their pioneering role within women’s cycling, providing the same level of support as their men’s team; something that has inspired me deeply. I’ve always been drawn to well-organized teams, and Lidl-Trek is renowned for just that. Plus, the atmosphere among the riders and staff looks fantastic, and I can’t wait to be a part of it.
“I’m especially looking forward to riding on new equipment. Trek is known for producing world-class bikes, and their aerodynamic, lightweight road bikes and exceptional time trial bikes are a big part of why I decided to join the team. I have big goals for the upcoming seasons, particularly targeting GC in stage races and excelling in time trials. The European and World TT Championships are major objectives for me, as well as tackling the Tour de France, the Vuelta a España, and the hilly classics like Strade Bianche and Liège-Bastogne-Liège, which suit my strengths perfectly.”
(Photo by Bas Czerwinski/Getty Images)
Luca Guercilena, General Manager of Lidl-Trek, welcomed Markus with great enthusiasm, noting her potential as an individual and as part of the Team.
“Riejanne has proven herself to be a force in both one-day races and stage races, and we’ve seen her take a big step up in recent seasons. She’s a rider whose ambition matches the drive of our team, and we’re confident that with Lidl-Trek, she’ll continue to make significant strides. Our R&D investments in aerodynamics will give her the tools she needs to excel even further, particularly on in time trials.
“Her qualities on the bike – climbing and time-trialling – will complement the rest of the Team well, allowing us to chase success in a variety of situations. Bringing her into Lidl-Trek will make us more competitive throughout the season, from the Classics to the Grand Tours.”
With Markus on board, Lidl-Trek is poised for an exciting season ahead, as the Team continues to grow in strength and depth.
