Frederik Veuchelen and Marco Minnaard will also be part of Wanty-Groupe Gobert in 2017. The experienced Veuchelen starts his 14th season as a professional bike rider. For the Dutchman Minnaard it will be his fourth year in Jean-François Bourlart’s team where he started his pro career in 2014.

"I'm happy to stay with Wanty-Groupe Gobert. The team gives me the possibility to ride great races. It was fantastic to be part of the line-up in the Amstel Gold Race", Marco Minnaard states.

Marco Minnaard finished as third in the kermesse of Viane. In stage races he took the 7th place in the Tour of Norway and the 10th in the Tour of Austria. Next year he hopes to make a step forward.

"Next season I hope to grow up as a rider. I also want to help the team in important races such as the Ardennes Classics en the WT-stage races."

Frederik Veuchelen starts his 14th season as a pro in 2017. The 38-year old Belgian is a valuable helper within the team and is always willing to support the team when he is asked.

"Straight from the start of the season I suffered from the hip. After the Classics I felt better. My role next year will be the same as this season: to be a good team captain and to motivate the (younger) guys. I want to be where the teams needs."

At age 37 he is one of the older riders in the peloton but he still feels young.

"When I am still motivated, still can reach the required level and continue to take good care of myself, why should I retire."

Frederik Veuchelen concludes with a song of Billy Ocean "When the going gets tough, the tough get going", meaning when the situation is difficult, it's time for you to show you can make it.

With the contract extensions of Minnaard and Veuchelen the team now has 20 confirmed riders for 2017. The next rider(s) will be announced in the upcoming weeks.