Lotto Inermarché one of the largest projects of recent years in Belgian Professional Cycling?
Lotto Cycling and Intermarché–Wanty have officially submitted a joint application for a UCI WorldTour license for the years 2026–2028. Official statements reported by CyclingNews and ohters confirm the merger plans, marking one of the most significant structural shifts in Belgian professional cycling in recent years.
Lotto Restructures After Dstny’s Exit
Underpinning the move are two different developments in both teams. On the Lotto side, the restructuring began earlier: Dstny already stepped away as co-title sponsor last season, forcing the team to reorganize its sponsorship setup. Lotto itself remains committed as a long-term partner and forms the stable backbone of the future structure.
Intermarché–Wanty Faces Financial Pressure and Sponsor Withdrawals
Intermarché–Wanty, meanwhile, has faced growing financial pressure. A major turning point came in 2024, when Circus was required to withdraw as title sponsor due to new Belgian gambling regulations. Combined with additional structural challenges, this created a situation in which the team could no longer operate sustainably in its existing form.
Another clear signal was the rider situation: multiple riders were advised early to look for new contracts. This wasn’t a sporting decision but an unmistakeable indication that Intermarché–Wanty was preparing to wind down its current setup. A recent example is the report that Intermarché rider Gerben Thijssen is already set to leave the team, underlining how early rider departures signalled the structural retreat of the current Intermarché–Wanty setup. (radsport-news.com)
What the New Project Means for 2026 and Its Key Partners
Lotto has made clear that its objective is to return to the WorldTour in 2026. The joint license application now lays the foundation for a new Belgian WorldTour project starting in 2026. It would become the country’s largest professional cycling initiative in recent years, combining Lotto’s long-term institutional stability with the sporting structures Intermarché has built. Several practical questions remain open—ranging from roster consolidation to operational integration and the definition of a new team identity—but the strategic direction is clear.
On the sponsor side, the picture aligns with the confirmed developments. Intermarché appears willing to continue supporting the new project, according to media reports. Lotto maintains its long-standing commitment and remains central to the future setup.
Some existing partners will not transition into the new structure. The most notable example is Cube, the current bike supplier of Intermarché–Wanty, which will not be part of the merged project but will continue its engagement in the sport through other teams.
The coming months will determine how this new Belgian WorldTour project will take shape. What is already evident is that the merger represents one of the most significant organisational transformations heading into the 2026 season.
Sources:
https://www.radsport-news.com/sport/sportnews_143534.htm
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