Kris Boeckmans and Sean de Bie sign for Lotto-Belisol as Belgian team strengthens
Lotto-Belisol have continued to strengthen their squad by signing sprinter Kris Boeckmans.
Last Updated: 08/08/13 4:53pm
The 26-year-old has signed a two-year deal and is the Belgian team's fourth acquisition of the transfer window, following Tony Gallopin, Sean de Bie and Sander Armee.
Boeckmans was part of Lotto's under-23 set-up in 2009 and moves amid doubt over the future of Vacansoleil-DCM, who are yet to find a title sponsor for the 2014 campaign.
"I'm very satisfied with my transfer to Lotto-Belisol," Boeckmans said. "This will certainly give a boost to my career. There is trust on both sides.
"I have fast legs and I want to further develop that asset within Lotto-Belisol. To begin the Classics season will be important next year. I look forward to Milan-San Remo."
De Bie signs
Lotto-Belisol team manager Marc Sergeant said: "We know him very well. I think we can make an even better rider of him."
De Bie has also signed a two-year contract and will move from the Leopard-Trek Continental Team.
The 21-year-old Belgian is one of the brightest young prospects in the sport and won the European under-23 championship road race last month.
He said: "I'm ready to make the step towards the pros. I feel I have become stronger, also mentally. From now on it can all begin.
"I don't yet know what my exact role will be. I want to grow in the team, so I become a great rider."
