31.08.2024 World-Tour, News
TWO STANDOUT RIDERS EXTEND THEIR CONTRACTS WITH CANYON//SRAM RACING
CANYON//SRAM Racing is excited to announce the contract extension of two standout riders, Agnieszka Skalniak-Sójka and Maike van der Duin, for another two years. The two riders have demonstrated remarkable growth and exceptional race instincts, solidifying their places as integral team members. The team is thrilled they have signed through to the end of 2026.
Maike van der Duin: Building on a Promising Start
Maike has quickly made her mark within CANYON//SRAM Racing, thanks to her impressive progress in her first two years with the team. From her debut, Maike has felt a strong sense of belonging, describing the team as her “second family” and appreciating the unwavering trust and support she’s received. “With all the trust and support in good and bad times the team gave me, I didn’t have to think long to extend my contract,” Maike says.
“With the best equipment, our performance and sport directors, I made big steps in my first year with CANYON//SRAM Racing. That support continued during a challenging season this year. I’m looking forward and excited for the coming years and to continue my development to be the best possible rider.”
One of her standout moments was securing a podium finish at the classic Gent-Wevelgem, a performance that confirmed she was in the right place to continue her development. “With the trust the team gave me from the beginning, and getting a World Tour podium in the first three months after joining the team, I immediately knew I was in the right place.”
As she looks ahead to the upcoming seasons, Maike is focused on playing a key role during the spring campaign, particularly in sprint finishes and stage races. “The team is so strong that we have more cards to play,” she says, excited to contribute to even greater successes in the coming years. “I want to be one of the best riders during the spring campaign by having an important role during the sprint finishes. I also aim to be a supportive teammate for our leaders during stage races.”
Agnieszka Skalniak-Sójka extends for two more seasons
Reflecting on her decision to stay with the team, Agnieszka emphasised the team’s positive environment and strong support system. “First of all, I feel very comfortable in the team. We have a great atmosphere, everyone is nice and helpful, and we have a good rapport on and off the bike. Everyone believes in success, and I think that’s one of the most important factors,” she shared.
Since joining the team in 2023, Agnieszka has added a win in the sprint classification at UAE Tour Women, seventh in the 2023 UCI ITT World Championships, and twelfth at the Paris Olympic Games ITT to her palmares, as well as being an integral part of many of the team’s successes.
Looking ahead, Agnieszka has her sights on even greater achievements, particularly in key stage races. “My small dream is to stand on the podium of one of the stages of the Giro or the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift,” she said. “There are a lot of changes coming up. I want to work through the winter very well so that the beginning of the season goes as well as possible.”
“I had already signed the contract extension earlier, but this year’s Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift was the standout race where I saw all the commitment of the team and a huge belief in success. This belief motivates us to work beyond our limits,” Agnieszka remarked.
Contract extensions for Agnieszka and Maike reinforce their commitment to the team and promise an exciting future filled with continued growth and achievements. CANYON//SRAM Racing is confident that their talent, instinct, and determination will lead to more exciting results in the world’s most prestigious races and is thrilled to have both riders on board for another two years.