In a move that is already sending shockwaves through the cycling world, Mathieu van der Poel is reportedly on the verge of re-signing with Alpecin-Deceuninck on a record-breaking deal that could exceed \$85 million annually. While no official confirmation has been made by the team or the rider’s camp, multiple sources close to the negotiation have revealed that talks are in the final stages, with only minor details left before pen is put to paper.
The deal, if finalized, would be the largest annual contract ever awarded to a professional cyclist and could reshape the financial landscape of the sport. Van der Poel, who has been with the team since 2011 and played a pivotal role in transforming it into a WorldTour powerhouse, is said to have attracted interest from several top-tier teams in recent months. However, Alpecin-Deceuninck has been aggressive in its pursuit to retain their marquee rider, reportedly offering him not just a historic salary but also increased commercial rights, brand partnership control, and a performance-based incentive structure that could push the total value even higher.
The financial package dwarfs most existing contracts in cycling and puts Van der Poel in a league of his own, not just as an athlete but as a global sports brand. His dominance across multiple disciplines—road racing, cyclocross, and mountain biking—has made him one of the most versatile and marketable cyclists of the modern era. His recent victories at the Tour of Flanders, Milan–San Remo, and multiple cyclocross world titles have only strengthened his position as a once-in-a-generation talent.
According to insiders, the new contract will also give Van der Poel expanded influence over the team’s race calendar, equipment decisions, and long-term strategic vision. This move reflects a shift in how elite athletes are being integrated not only as performers but as stakeholders within the organization’s business model.
While details remain under wraps, reactions from fans and industry professionals have been swift and passionate. Some hail it as a well-deserved reward for a transcendent athlete who has redefined the sport’s boundaries, while others question whether such high spending could create a financial imbalance in a sport traditionally built on modest team budgets.
Regardless of where one stands on the debate, one thing is certain: if this deal is finalized, Mathieu van der Poel will not only remain the face of Alpecin-Deceuninck, but he will also redefine what it means to be a professional cyclist in the modern era. An official announcement is expected soon, and the entire cycling community is waiting with bated breath to see how this monumental development unfolds.
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