Edward Planckaert built himself up to the position of an important clog in Mathieu van der Poel’s Classics team during his five seasons with Alpecin-Deceuninck. But from 2026 onwards, the 30-year-old Belgian will wear the colours of rival team Soudal – Quick-Step where he’ll link up with former teammate Tim Merlier.”I started riding my bike when I was just eight years old, dreaming of one day joining a team like Soudal – Quick-Step, and I’m incredibly happy this dream will finally become reality next year,” Planckaert seemed overjoyed about his three-year contract in a press release.
“I have always admired the Wolfpack’s fighting spirit and how they always race with their heart, so to become part of this team from 2026 onwards is something really special. As a proud Flandrien, I am ready to give everything and help my leaders and the squad get as many victories as possible,” said Planckaert.
“As we continue to strengthen our team for next season, we bring in Edward, who’s a rider that can do well in many different races and scenarios. He has shown what he is capable of since joining the World Tour and that makes us confident that his support and experience in the Classics, navigating Grand Tours, and flat finishes, can help us when it will matter the most,” explained Soudal – Quick-Step CEO Jurgen Foré.