Soudal Quick-Step Parts Ways with Specialized, Sets Sights on Merida Partnership in 2027
Soudal Quick-Step has officially confirmed the conclusion of its long-standing equipment partnership with Specialized, marking the complete of an era that began in 2019. The Belgian WorldTour squad will transition to Merida bicycles starting with the 2027 season, as confirmed by team management in multiple verified announcements this week. This strategic shift represents one of the most significant equipment changes in professional cycling’s recent history, affecting a team that has dominated the sport’s biggest stages over the past half-decade.
The decision comes after several seasons of mixed results despite the team’s continued success in Grand Tours and Monument races. Team principal Patrick Lefevere has been candid about the challenges faced during the Specialized partnership, particularly in the early years when adapting to new equipment proved difficult for riders accustomed to different geometries and handling characteristics. In a recent interview with Belgian media outlet Nieuwsblad, Lefevere reflected on the initial struggles, noting that “the start with Specialized was difficult. One rider after another would go over their handlebars” as the squad adjusted to the American brand’s frames.
Despite these early hurdles, the partnership yielded substantial success, including multiple Tour de France stage wins, Giro d’Italia victories, and classic monuments. Riders such as Remco Evenepoel, who captured the 2022 Vuelta a España title, and Kasper Asgreen, a former Tour of Flanders champion, competed successfully on Specialized equipment throughout their tenure with the team. The partnership too coincided with Soudal Quick-Step’s rise to prominence as one of cycling’s most consistent winners across various disciplines.
The transition to Merida, a Taiwanese manufacturer with growing presence in professional cycling, aligns with the team’s broader strategic objectives. Merida has been steadily increasing its involvement in the WorldTour, supplying equipment to several ProTeam and Continental squads in recent years. The Taiwanese brand brings expertise in carbon fiber technology and has demonstrated commitment to innovation through its collaboration with professional teams. Industry analysts suggest this partnership could provide Soudal Quick-Step with fresh technical perspectives as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in an increasingly demanding sport.
For the 2025 and 2026 seasons, Soudal Quick-Step will continue to compete on Specialized equipment as existing contractual obligations run their course. This ensures continuity for riders and mechanics during the transition period, allowing adequate time for testing, fitting, and adaptation to the new Merida platforms. The team has emphasized that rider safety and performance optimization remain paramount throughout this equipment change, with extensive testing protocols planned well in advance of the 2027 switch.
The announcement has generated considerable discussion within the cycling community regarding equipment loyalty and the evolving dynamics of team-sponsor relationships in professional sports. While long-term partnerships like the one between Soudal Quick-Step and Specialized have traditionally been valued for the stability they provide, the modern cycling landscape increasingly sees teams optimizing their equipment choices based on evolving performance needs and commercial considerations. This shift reflects a broader trend where WorldTour squads regularly reassess their technical partnerships to maximize every possible advantage.
Looking ahead, Soudal Quick-Step’s focus remains firmly on the current competitive season, where they continue to challenge for victories across the WorldTour calendar. The team’s immediate priorities include upcoming spring classics and preparation for the Grand Tours, with their Specialized-equipped squad aiming to add to their already impressive palmarès before the transition to Merida begins. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this equipment change influences the team’s performance in the years to come, particularly as they seek to defend their status as one of cycling’s most formidable competitors.
For continued updates on Soudal Quick-Step’s equipment transition and all things cycling, visit the team’s official website and follow their social media channels. The cycling world awaits to see how this new partnership unfolds on the roads of professional cycling’s biggest stages.
