Lanterne Rouge Cycling Podcast

Patrick and Benji dive into the upcoming Soudal Quick-Step 2026 cycling season, reflecting on the team's 2025 performance. They discuss Remco Evenepoel's injury impact and analyze squad transitions, especially against rivals like Pogacar and Van der Poel. The hosts evaluate upcoming transfers and the potential of new signings, predicting their roles in cobbled classics and Grand Tours. They set ambitious goals for the season and debate the team's identity after Remco, while remaining optimistic about Quick-Step's future.

A major rebrand shakes up Israel Premier Tech as they transition to NSN, with discussions on sponsorship surprises and team dynamics. Geraint Thomas embarks on a new journey as Ineos' Director of Racing, raising questions about his influence. Biniam Girmay joins NSN, promising excitement for the team's ambitions. Veronica Ewers bravely shares her struggle with RED-S, highlighting the importance of awareness in cycling. Lastly, João Almeida's contract extension with UAE and the unique concept of artificial climbs for the 2028 Worlds spark lively debate.

Patrick and Benji dive into the freshly revealed Giro d'Italia 2026 route, spotlighting its start in Bulgaria. They recap the highlights from 2025, discussing crashes and key moments that impact expectations. The duo explores the sprint prospects in early stages and analyzes a challenging uphill finish on stage 2. They react to the jaw-dropping 245km Blockhouse stage and debate the riders likely to dominate. With insights on major climbs and potential GC contenders like Almeida and Vingegaard, they rate the route's variety and overall appeal.

The hosts preview the powerhouse women's team, FDJ - Suez, dissecting pivotal transfers like Demi Vollering. They critique race tactics and decisions that cost them victories. The discussion includes roster strategies for stage races versus cobble classics. Predictions for 2026 feature prominently, with a focus on Vollering's market value and future performance amid rising young talents like Célia Geri. Their humor shines through as they explore social media's impact on rider focus and discuss the challenges ahead for the team's success.

Patrick and Benji dive into the transformation of the Decathlon CMA CGM Team, discussing their performance and ambitions for 2026. They evaluate standout riders, including the talented Bissiger and De Bont, and highlight emerging stars like Seixas and Bizio. The hosts assess crucial team departures and exciting new signings, mapping out sprint strategies with Kooij. They set ambitious goals, aiming for Grand Tour podiums and greater Classics relevance, wrapping up with bold predictions and hot takes for the upcoming season.

Dive into Lidl-Trek's evolving lineup as they prepare for an ambitious 2026. Big moves like Ayuso's blockbuster transfer and leadership roles spark excitement. The hosts dissect Pedersen's classics form and the group's potential in Grand Tours. With the blending of experienced riders and new talent, predictions fly for next year's targets. Discussions on the impact of outgoing team members and dynamic race strategies add intrigue. Will Ayuso deliver at the Grand Tour level? Tune in for hot takes and bold forecasts!

Join the hosts as they dissect the new Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe lineup for 2026. Discover how recent transfers impact team strength, and balance the demands of multiple Grand Tour leaders. They explore race allocation scenarios and the effects of time trial routes on performance. With ambitions to clinch a Grand Tour win and vie for podiums, the discussion heats up with bold predictions and concerns over team management dynamics.

The hosts dive into Uno-X Mobility’s exciting new journey following their WorldTour promotion. They discuss standout riders and the team's Scandinavian identity while evaluating 2025 results and transfers. Key strategies for balancing big races, like the Tour de France, with UCI point obligations are highlighted. Creative recruitment ideas surface, including cross-sport signings. Predictions about upcoming wins and potential breakthroughs spark a lively debate, leaving fans eager for the 2026 season.

The hosts discuss the standout female cyclists of 2025, debating who deserves best GC rider between Ferrand-Prévot and Vollering. Highlights include Wiebes' dominance as the best sprinter and Ferrand-Prévot's impressive classic wins. They also honor Kim LeCourn Pineda's monument victory, surprise performances from Valliers, and celebrate Justine Hikita's support role in the Tour. Time trial champ Reusser and breakaway ace Squibborne are recognized, alongside a discussion on the best races. Listener engagement wraps up this insightful tribute to women's cycling.

In this discussion, Jim van den Berg, the Founder and CEO of JOIN Cycling, shares his journey from an aspiring junior cyclist to a WorldTour coach and tech innovator. He reveals the scalability challenges of traditional coaching that led to the creation of JOIN, an adaptive training platform. Jim also dives into the strategic decisions behind marketing, how content drove user acquisition, and the recent merger with Relive, which expanded JOIN’s portfolio beyond cycling. His vision for the future includes developing apps for multiple sports and navigating the complexities of fundraising.