Soudal Quick-Step, one of the most prominent teams in professional cycling, has announced that its long-serving CEO, Patrick Lefevere, will be stepping down from his position at the end of this calendar year. Lefevere, who founded the team in 2003, has played a pivotal role in steering the squad to a remarkable record since its inception. Under his leadership, Soudal Quick-Step has amassed an impressive collection of nearly 1,000 race victories, establishing themselves as a dominant force in the cycling world.
Throughout its illustrious history, the team has achieved notable milestones, including clinching 19 World Championship titles, securing three Olympic gold medals, and winning four European Championships. Notably, Soudal Quick-Step has also celebrated 124 Grand Tour stage victories, which is a testament to their prowess in delivering strong performances on cycling’s biggest stages. Lefevere, now 69 years old, has decided that it is the right time for a new chapter, both for himself and the team.
In his farewell statement published on the Soudal Quick-Step website, Lefevere expressed the profound impact that leaving this position has on him, stating, “It is a life-changing moment to leave a role that I have committed so much of my life to.” He went on to share his enduring passion for the sport of cycling, conveying, “It has been a great honour to head up this beautiful team and make so many special memories.” Lefevere’s deep connections and contributions to the cycling community are irreplaceable, and his departure marks a significant transitional phase for the team.
Taking over the reins as Lefevere’s successor will be Jurgen Fore, who was appointed as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) earlier this year. Fore, aged 54, hails from Belgium and has a notable professional background, having previously been a partner at Deloitte. His extensive experience in business and management positions him well to provide a fresh perspective while maintaining the legacy that Lefevere has established over the years.
While Lefevere will step down from his CEO role, he will remain on the team’s executive board as an honorary member, ensuring a smooth transition. Reflecting on Fore’s leadership capabilities, he said, “I have seen how his relationships with our sponsors and partners, as well as the team’s internal stakeholders, has grown over the last 12 months.” This endorsement speaks volumes about Fore’s ability to foster vital relationships that will undoubtedly contribute to Soudal Quick-Step’s ongoing success in the competitive landscape of professional cycling.
Soudal Quick-Step is home to talented riders, including two-time Olympic gold medal winner Remco Evenepoel, who exemplifies the team’s commitment to excellence. Jurgen Fore acknowledged the immense legacy Lefevere has built during his years at the helm, praising him as a “figurehead in professional cycling” who has garnered respect and admiration from peers, sponsors, and fans alike. Fore expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from Lefevere, stating, “I will do everything in my power to take care of it.”
Looking forward, Fore intends to lead Soudal Quick-Step with a focus on securing its long-term future within the cycling arena. He draws confidence from his expansive experience in both cycling management roles and business operations, believing that this combination will empower him to develop a robust structure for the team that promotes continual success. As Soudal Quick-Step embarks on this new chapter with Jurgen Fore at the helm, the cycling community anticipates how the organization will evolve while honoring the remarkable legacy of its longstanding CEO, Patrick Lefevere.
Fans can look forward to witnessing the team in action during the 2025 cycling season, which will include prestigious events like the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes, available for viewing via streaming on discovery+. This transition period signifies an important milestone, as Soudal Quick-Step embarks on a journey into its future with new leadership and an ongoing commitment to excellence in professional cycling.
