The Alpecin-Premier Tech cycling team has capped off a remarkably successful spring classics season, securing victories in nearly every major one-day race. A double victory this past weekend, with Mathieu van der Poel winning the E3 Classic and Jasper Philipsen taking the win in Flanders Fields, cemented their dominance. The team now boasts wins in all of the major spring classics, a feat that team management acknowledges was not necessarily a pre-season goal, but one they’ll certainly savor.
The team’s success is particularly notable given the recent transition in sponsorship, becoming Alpecin-Premier Tech for the 2026 season after Deceuninck stepped away from its title sponsorship role. Premier Tech’s involvement guarantees the team’s future, with a three-year partnership now in place, alongside a two-year extension with Alpecin.
This period of success isn’t just about winning races; it’s about building a sustainable model for retaining top talent. Team co-owner Christoph Roodhooft, speaking to Sporza, admitted the team’s trajectory has been somewhat surprising. “Actually quite striking,” he said. “We never really had it on our radar. It wasn’t realistic to say that was our intention. But once you start winning, the to-do list naturally gets shorter.”
The vast majority of these victories have approach courtesy of Van der Poel and Philipsen, two of the sport’s brightest stars. Roodhooft explained the key to keeping riders of their caliber is providing a supportive environment – including top-tier equipment – and, crucially, offering competitive salaries. “It’s simple: to keep absolute toppers like Mathieu or Jasper, you need a good environment – including good material. You similarly have to be able to pay them the market price,” he stated. “And when they perform, the riders around them are automatically noticed by other teams, who then desire to pay a higher price for them.”
A Defining Victory in “Vlaanderens Mooiste”
With the addition of the E3 and Flanders Fields wins, only Gent-Wevelgem was missing from Alpecin-Premier Tech’s spring classics “bingo card.” Roodhooft reflected on the team’s most cherished victory to date, pointing to their first triumph in the Ronde van Vlaanderen (Tour of Flanders) in 2020. That race saw Van der Poel narrowly defeat Wout van Aert in a thrilling sprint finish. “Our first triumph in the Ronde van Vlaanderen was particularly beautiful,” Roodhooft said. “That where Mathieu wins in the sprint with Wout van Aert. The Ronde remains simply the race of races in our country. And also Mathieu’s win in the E3 and the Ronde with his rainbow jersey, I place very high.”
His brother, Philip Roodhooft, broadened the scope, highlighting the team’s international successes. “For me, it’s our victories in Milan-San Remo, any of the three,” he said with a laugh, referencing their multiple wins in the prestigious Italian classic. Alpecin-Premier Tech has clearly established itself as a force to be reckoned with on the world stage.
The team’s success isn’t limited to the men’s side. As Cycling Weekly reported, Puck Pieterse, Yara Kastelijn and Charlotte Kool lead the charge for the women’s team, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to both genders of the sport. This balanced approach is a key component of their long-term strategy.
For fans following the sport, the dominance of Alpecin-Premier Tech raises the question of whether any team can challenge their authority in the upcoming races. The team’s depth of talent, combined with a clear strategic vision, suggests they will remain a major contender for years to come. Jasper Philipsen, currently riding for Alpecin–Premier Tech, has already established himself as a prolific sprinter, with multiple stage wins in both the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España. His continued success, alongside Van der Poel’s versatility, provides a formidable one-two punch for the team.
The team’s recent victories, including Philipsen’s fastest-ever edition of Gent-Wevelgem, as reported by Outside Magazine, underscore their current form. The team’s ability to perform consistently across different terrains and race conditions is a testament to their meticulous preparation and tactical acumen.
Looking ahead, Alpecin-Premier Tech has already announced its targets for the upcoming Milano-Sanremo, aiming for a fourth consecutive victory. Mathieu van der Poel has also confirmed his spring campaign, signaling his intention to remain a key player in the classics season. The team’s focus now shifts to maintaining its momentum and building on its recent successes.
The Alpecin-Premier Tech story is one of strategic investment, talent development, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Their current run of form is a clear indication that they are a team to watch in the years to come. The cycling world will be keenly observing whether they can continue their winning streak and solidify their position as a dominant force in the sport.
Next up for Alpecin-Premier Tech is Milano-Sanremo on March 21st, where they will undoubtedly be among the favorites. Fans can follow the team’s progress and receive official updates on their website, www.alpecin-premiertech.com. What are your thoughts on Alpecin-Premier Tech’s dominance? Share your opinions in the comments below!
