Written by Amstel Flanders at 20:44 16/3-2024
Time for a little update after many busy days and lots of racing. With the arrival of the squad to Zyte Division for the first time ever, Manager Williamson feels very pleased after this small milestone. Who'd have thought some of our legends enjoying the opportunity to ride at the silver category of OCM Calendar? At least not as soon as 2026, with the new F1 regulations.
Our staff also noticed some riders entered in their last season contractual deal or they have a season left. Special case of Mr. Sønderby, whose contract expires at the end of S72, before all the rush in the start of this season of his sell-not-a-sell and now his not-for-sale status, despite lots of PMs.
 Sam Azargoshasp: If everything goes as planned, S69 will be the last season of the biggest legend of the team and greatest Iranian sprinter of all times. This season Iranman has become a luxury supporter for Sønderby, helping with his strong technical riding and top speed. There will be more than a tear when the moment comes, in the meantime we enjoy every kilometer of him showing experience and strength.
“I guess I don’t think at all in retirement. Not today. It’s been a magical journey and right now I’m very happy the team is above the clouds, our season is definitely too good to be true; though we deserve this time of success and joy,” Iranman said a few days ago on our official channel.
Nestor Shcheglov: Former SP Captain of Team WonderDee arrived this season to increase the overall strength in TQ and SP. He’s trying to recover his shape after a strange mess done when he was resting, so Nestor lost another two weeks trying to refresh his top form. Back on the bike, the Russian sprinter signed up for homeland tour Perm Tour, where he launched Sønderby to victory in the last stage. His contractual situation isn’t clear, his agent talks of a 1+1 deal (S68 and 69) relying on some factors.
“I struggled first. I signed up for race, when race break was over, my shape had not decreased and my discipline was high. Finally, I ended up racing twice, so I stayed home for more than two weeks. But the team is nice, they friendly a lot, and they win so winning is good, very good, da…” Shcheglov says.
The staff is unsure to use that extra season yet.
Zack Fayard: Zack will be completing his 7th season in the team this S68 and it’s still not sure if he will be in the presentation of next season. Turning 35 in a week, Manager Williamson has no doubts of his talent and profesionalism, securing all his results and big moments wearing our colors. Moreover, our team ambassador Mr. Masson talks to main staff and trainers often, probably speaking how convenient Fayard is for the current team. Time will tell.
“Wether if I stay or leave, I will be thankful forever, this team means a lot to me. They gave me a chance to show my talent and will always do what’s best for the squad,” Fayard comments.
Sylvain Nkurunziza: Nkurunziza has been in the front pages in the last seasons, unfortunately not due to his results. However, this one-team man has something else to offer and he will reach 200 races ridden in our colors to celebrate.
He didn’t make any comments, being focused on the race training.
Rodas Lima: There is no doubt about Rodas’ permanence, the staff likes him and he likes the team and facilities. Prove of it, Lima has raced on both editions of Men become Gods Tour the team has participated.
“If I can keep up my good legs, my wish is to retire in Amstel Flanders. I really like the vibe and positiveness of everyone involved. We’re a big family, perhaps it’s what makes the difference,” Lima stated in an official sponsor partnership event at Palacio de los Deportes, Madrid.
Oscar Liebrechts: Not much to say here, as Oscar confirmed to Manager Williamson his intention to retire in S69 at the end of his contract.
André Tran: Another one-team man, crucial as a versatile lead out, wind breaker and strong in taking down breakway groups in flat profile races. Herr Tran is a solid key in the team and team leaders and trainers are totally fine having someone like him in the team bus.
“It’s good to feel appreaciated and valued, it gets the best out of your skills. This season has been amazing and thrilling, specially at Norway Tour, we know we are a small squad in the big leagues, but we can make some noise,” Tran said to Bild Sports columnist.
Emil Sønderby: “It’s only 300 meters to finish line, and here goes Emil Sønderby, he’s reaching top speed and leaving behind his competitors in the final sprint!!! He’s all alone in the front, just a few meters away and he looks over the shoulder, he rises his arms in the air, clenched fists… HE’S DONE IT, HE’S DONE IT AGAIN, EMIL SØNDERBY WINS TODAY FOR AMSTEL FLANDERS!!!”
An emotional narration that keeps happening in most race broadcasts throughout S68, and still we can’t believe the record season of our Danish viking. Though his contract finishes in S72, after his failed attempt of selling, many teams now have shown interest, with some asking for more discount (like if 300k wasn’t low for a rider of his skills). Yet the answer remains the same, 300k was a bargain price because we needed the cash, but he’s worth more and now… even more.
The staff is urging the team manager to extend his contract, and offer a well-deserved payrise. Emil feels very surprised and happy to be playing his part to get the team palmares bigger and becoming the revelation of the season at Amstel Flanders.
“What can I say? It was all about 300k,” Emil grinned and shuddered, interviewed in our official TV.
Other rumors say manager Williamson is seeking a young belgian sprinter, sadly the glorious days of belgian top sprinters are far behind now. Curiously our team has never sheltered a top local talent.
Over n’ Out.
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Comments
Thank you!
Great season for Emil! Good luck finding a talent
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