New team LottoNL-Jumbo which is currently riding under the Belkin name, introduced itself to the public at the TivoliVredenburg in Utrecht, the Netherlands, today. The cyclists and ice skaters said that they are thrilled about the unique collaboration in Dutch sport.

 

Robert Gesink

“As a team we really are a good combination. With two typical Dutch sports, the sponsors will generate a lot of attention and the cyclists and ice-skaters can learn from each other. What I can learn from Sven Kramer? The ice-skaters know everything about specific strength exercises in the run-up to an event, but we are well advanced in nutrition and training.”
 

Ice-skater Sven Kramer

“I’m a true ice-skater and over the next four years, I’ll work towards the Olympics in South Korea with everything I have. I’d like to go to France during the Tour, but only to watch!​ I have deliberately chosen a new team and a new road so that I can develop myself further. Today is a fantastic start. Everyone is very motivated to make this project a success. This cooperation will certainly provide a positive vibe.”
 

Ice-skater Laurine van Riessen

“This team is the ideal place. I recently joined the national track selection. The team provides a lot of knowledge in both sports. I expect a lot of good tips from the cyclists! After last season, which did not go as hoped, I’m extra keen to perform well this year and win together with the cyclists.”
 

Laurens ten Dam

"Unfortunately, I don’t have many tips for Laurine van Riessen. I’m not much a sprinter! I’ve never been in a team with women, but I sensed immediately that there is a good atmosphere in the ice-skating team. The men’s and women’s teams are strong and unified. As cyclists, we would like to benefit from that team spirit.”
 

Wilco Kelderman

“I use to ice-skate when I was young. I was good. I only began racing bikes later at a regional level so I started growing late and my opponents had a big and jump on me. I stopped skating to focus on cycling to improve but also because I really enjoy the tactical part of our sport. Normally, when it freezes in Holland, I’m abroad for a training camp, so I don’t use my skates often anymore. It would be fun to take on the ice in Thialf one day with one of the ice-skaters.”
 

Steven Kruijswijk

“I know a lot of ice-skaters due to training camps. In Saint Moritz, our paths have crossed in the past. Normally, we have a chat. Our sports differ in some ways, but we the share the pressure that comes with being an athlete. We already talked about training methods. We have just finished our season, while the skaters are about to begin. I’ll leave for holiday on Friday, but I’m definitely going to keep an eye on the ice-skating events next week. It’s the first time that our team will be competing and I don’t want to miss that.”
 

Rick Flens

“My cycling season recently came to an end, but the new season started today already with this new sponsorship. I wanted to be here today to get the vibe with the new team. It’s important to unite because both parties will profit from this collaboration. Maybe only details, but that’s enough. Ice-skating is a beautiful sport. I was hooked to the TV the whole day during the most recent Elfstedentocht, or ice skating marathon. This winter, I’m definitely going to follow my ice-skating teammates.”