SD Worx-Protime boss Danny Stam has confirmed that star rider Demi Vollering will be leaving the team at the end of the current season. Vollering, the defending Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift champion, had an exceptional 2023 season, winning multiple prestigious races. There had been speculation about her future with the team, especially with Lotte Kopecky also having a strong season and signed until 2028. The decision was ultimately made due to budget constraints, as the team cannot afford to keep two top-level riders. This sets the stage for an exciting battle between Vollering and Kopecky in the upcoming season.
The departure of Vollering from SD Worx-Protime means that cycling fans will finally get to see her and Kopecky go head-to-head in races. Other top teams will be looking to close the gap to SD Worx, as they have been dominant in the women’s cycling scene. Vollering was offered a generous contract by the team but did not respond within the specified timeline, leading to the assumption that she will be leaving at the end of the year. Rumors have linked Vollering to UAE Team ADQ, who reportedly offered her a lucrative contract. However, no other teams have been linked to Vollering at the moment.
Vollering has expressed her desire to achieve the hat-trick of winning the Olympics, Tour de France, and World Championships. She sees these events as significant opportunities in her career and dreams of wearing the rainbow jersey of the world champion. The Olympics, taking place once every four years, holds a special place in her heart, as does the Tour de France, which will start in Rotterdam, close to where she was born. The World Championships in Switzerland, where she currently resides, also present a great aspiration for her.
The cycling world is eagerly anticipating the showdown between Vollering and Kopecky in the upcoming season, as they are both top-level riders with impressive achievements in their careers. Other teams will be looking to capitalize on SD Worx-Protime’s decision to let Vollering go, hoping to strengthen their own rosters and challenge for victories. Vollering’s departure will certainly shake up the women’s cycling scene, setting the stage for an exciting season filled with thrilling races and fierce competition.
