The merger between Lotto and Intermarché-Wanty also has consequences for the cyclo-cross environment. The future of the Charles Liégois Roastery CX project, led by Bart Wellens, was in doubt. Now a decision has been made.
The cyclo-cross team of Charles Liégois Roastery CX, linked to the Intermarché-Wanty structure, was severely depleted. Thijs Aerts retired after the Oostmalle closing prize, Kevin Kuhn found shelter at Heizomat-Cube and leader Gerben Kuypers moves to Pauwels Sauzen-Altez.
Toon Aerts has a ‘new’ team from January 1
Bart Wellens was thus left with a limited core. Rumors were already circulating within the cyclo-cross environment about a possible integration with Deschacht-Hens, the team of the Verschueren brothers. That collaboration would have been logical, since Toon Aerts has been associated with Lotto for some time.
According to Wellens there was nothing to it, but it is now clear that it will be Charles Liégois-Deschacht. The team will enter the field under that name from January 1. With Toon Aerts, as it turns out.
Bart Wellens only in the road team
That’s late Cycling flash know. Bart Wellens would disappear from the cyclo-cross team. He will only be responsible for racing days on the road at Lotto-Intermarché. A merger follows in the field among the riders.
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Promising rider Kelje Solen and professional rider Julie Brouwers join the ranks from Charles Liégois Roastery CX, while Toon Aerts can also ride in a new jersey from January 1, as has been made clear for some time.
