In 2015, Laurens De Vreese has made the step to the highest level in cycling. Last summer he signed a one-year contract with Astana. After the first few weeks in his new team, De Vreese is impressed by what he has seen.

"In early November we gathered for the first time in Tuscany to talk, try the team kit and to adjust our riding position. In December, we did our first training camp. So far the integration has been very smooth," De Vreese tells Sporza.

Last year De Vreese ride for Wanty Groupe - Gobert where he could often ride for himself. At Astana, he gets another role. "Lars Boom, Borut Bozic and I must show the colours in the sprint. I will mainly have to ride as a lieutenant for them. I have already shared room with Boom and we bonded immediately."

Not only the role has changed for De Vreese. He also needs to get used to the entire Astana setup. "I was pretty impressed. Everything is very professional and scientific. I did not know the science of cycling was so advanced."

"Also, the level is higher. Everyone has very professional mind. I have already spoken to Nibali but he is not the only big name here.

"I'm going to do everything to be allowed to stay here. My eyes have been opened. This is a dream come true. I started with a one-year contract, but hopefully I can stay here for longer. That's my goal. "

Astana barely got a WorldTour license for 2015. Only in December things fell into place. "I was not really concerned. I focused mainly on my own preparation, but subconsciously you think about it," said De Vreese.

"Imagine that I could not do my job. We didn't talk much about it in the team. We could not talk about it with the press. Everything had to go through the spokesman."