It’s with great joy that Israel – Premier Tech can announce that Sep Vanmarcke will continue in the team moving forward, shifting into a staff member role after retiring from cycling earlier this season.
The 35-year-old Belgian Classics specialist was forced to end his active career with IPT abruptly in July, due to medical reasons, but he was always aiming to stay involved in the sport.
“After I had to retire, I’m happy to have found a new future with IPT as a staff member. One of the likely roles I will play is a Sports Director, however, I could also see myself in other functions, which we will discuss when the time is right. I am really motivated to start my new chapter in cycling”, Vanmarcke says.
Israel – Premier Tech’s General Manager, Kjell Carlström, points out that Vanmarcke’s experience and knowledge from a long career will be a strong asset for IPT’s performance team.
“Sep has been a very valuable rider with us for the last few years, but unfortunately, he had to stop his career abruptly. We are very happy to have Sep join the sporting and performance team in 2024. He brings a significant amount of experience and knowledge to the team staff and we are excited to see him progress in his new role.”
IPT owner, Sylvan Adams, acknowledges Sep’s leadership skills as invaluable when it comes to his transition to the staff side.
“We were all so sorry to learn that Sep’s recently discovered heart condition meant that he could no longer race his bike professionally, and would be forced to retire. As Sep is a true leader on our team, it was only logical that he should transition to becoming a member of our staff, and I am grateful that Sep will join us immediately in that role. Sep has a lot to offer, especially to our young riders, who will benefit from his knowledge, experience, and tactical prowess. Our classics team, in particular, will be strengthened by Sep’s steady guidance. So Sep, what do you do when you are served lemons? You make lemonade! Welcome back, in your new role. I am excited to continue the journey together,” adds Adams.
