2021 has been an eventful year for DSM, with even more riders leaving the team, such as Benoot and Van Wilder, because they could no longer agree with philosophy (for testimonials about this: see “read more”).
“We have indeed not had the best season with the men,” admits head coach Rudi Kemna. “But our philosophy will not change.”
His colleague Roy Curvers also admitted that not everything was sweet and bright. “I’m not proud of the past season. But sometimes it helps to change things. We want to create an inspiring and motivating environment. But the philosophy will always remain the same.”
In addition to Benoot and Van Wilder, DSM also said goodbye to the Australians Hindley and Storer. Henri Vandenabeele is now the only Belgian with the team, he comes over from the DSM training team. John Degenkolb, more or less a failure at Lotto, is the most striking newcomer.
“This feels like coming home,” says the 32-year-old German, who drove for some of DSM’s early predecessors for years. “I enjoyed the atmosphere in the team at the time and I still feel the same spirit, even though there are many new faces. I am already looking forward to the first training camp. We are going to create a unique group.”
