Team Flanders-Baloise and Eddy Merckx Bikes: a successful tandem for 30 years
In 1994, the development team was founded as Vlaanderen 2002-Eddy Merckx. The Flemish government aims to give young riders every opportunity to find their way in the international peloton in a calm and medically responsible manner. Eddy Merckx was involved with the team from the very beginning, and it immediately had a future star in its ranks with Tom Steels. In 2001, Eddy Merckx was no longer part of the team's name, but the riders have always continued to ride our bikes.
Cycling stars
For many Flemish cycling stars, the development team has been a springboard to a successful career. The list of big names is impressive. Mario Aerts, Stijn Devolder, Jan Bakelants, Thomas De Gendt, Yves Lampaert, Victor Campenaerts, and Oliver Naesen are just a few of the riders who were once part of the team. The team has also always supported track cyclists, such as Matthew Gilmore, Iljo Keisse, and later Robbe Ghys. In 2024, three young riders, Vito Braet (to Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert), Milan Fretin (to Cofidis), and Sander De Pestel (Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale Team), will take the step to the WorldTour. With this, Team Flanders-Baloise continues to fulfill its mission.
Partnership
The philosophy of Team Flanders-Baloise is to further develop young talent. Eddy Merckx will continue to contribute to this with pleasure in the coming years. The advice from the peloton is also very valuable in the development of new bikes. The team rides our performance bike, the 525.