In a strategic move to bolster their climbing prowess, Pinarello-Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team has secured the talents of Belgian climber Niels Driesen and Irish rising star Liam O’Brien for the upcoming season. Both riders have demonstrated exceptional performances in mountainous terrains, making them valuable assets for the Swiss ProTeam’s ambitions.
Niels Driesen: A Rising Belgian Talent
At 20 years old, Niels Driesen has rapidly ascended the ranks of professional cycling. After a promising junior career, he joined the U23 team of Lotto, where he showcased his climbing abilities. Notably, Driesen secured a second-place finish in the Ardense Pijl and clinched both a stage and the overall victory at the challenging Ronde de l’Isard in the Pyrenees. His impressive performances continued with a stage win and a fourth-place overall finish at the demanding Giro della Valle d’Aosta. These achievements underscore his readiness for the professional peloton.
Liam O’Brien: The Irish Climbing Prodigy
Liam O’Brien, hailing from Ireland, has also made significant strides in the climbing domain. In the previous season, he secured a second-place finish at the Ronde de l’Isard, trailing only Jarno Widar. He further demonstrated his prowess with a fourth-place finish at the Giro della Valle d’Aosta. This season, O’Brien faced challenges but still managed an eleventh-place finish among professionals at the Giro di Sardegna. His resilience and climbing skills have caught the attention of the cycling world.
Pinarello-Q36.5’s Strategic Acquisition
The addition of Driesen and O’Brien aligns with Pinarello-Q36.5’s strategic vision to enhance their climbing capabilities. The team has been active in the transfer market, with other notable signings including Tour de France stage winner Mauro Schmid from Team Jayco-AlUla. Schmid’s acquisition is particularly significant, as he brings a wealth of experience and success to the team. (cyclingnews.com)
Looking Ahead
With the integration of these talented climbers, Pinarello-Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team is poised to make a formidable impact in the upcoming season. Their enhanced climbing roster positions them as strong contenders in mountainous stages and Grand Tours, reflecting their commitment to excellence and strategic growth in the competitive cycling landscape.
Highlights:
- ‘I haven’t reached my full potential’ – Tour de France stage winner Mauro Schmid signs for Pinarello-Q36.5, Published on Saturday, August 01