Hagens Berman Axeon is excited to announce the signing of Jens Reynders. The 3rd place finisher at Gent-Wevelgem U23 joins Axeon from Wallonie-Bruxelles Development Team.
“I really wanted to join Hagens Berman Axeon because it is one of the best development teams in the world,” said Reynders. “Everything is well organized, the staff, the trainers, the material, the way the team works, it is very professional. It is the ideal environment for me to develop myself. The program they have for me, for example, is the ideal mix between pro-races and the biggest races with the U23. The pro-races make you stronger and tougher, the U23 races on the other hand, ensure that we can race to win. Which is in my opinion very important for a young rider. I have a lot of faith in the team and I'm sure that together we will have a great season ahead of us. ”
The 21-year-old from Tongeren, Belgium followed his podium finish at Gent-Wevelgem with another strong showing at Paris-Roubaix Espoirs where he also finished 3rd. Reynders won 5 races in 2019, including Grand Prix de la ville de Pérenchies in Northern France. He also rode for two days in the yellow jersey at Triptyque de Ardennais. At the European U23 Championships, Reynders earned a top 20 spot, finishing just behind soon-to-be teammate Andre Carvalho.
Reynders is a rider that can hold his own in almost any race, particularly in the Classics, and is able to sprint well after a long day of hard racing. He is also looking to improve where he can to become a better rider and teammate. “I want to become a better time-trialist and learn how I can improve my ability to successfully finish off a race,” he said. “I think the team can help me to reach a higher level. I would like to ride a consistent season with some highlights; my goal is to ride some good results in the Flanders classics.”
“Jens is a great rider with huge potential that could actually be a World Tour rider already,” said director Axel Merckx. “We’re really looking forward to having him on the team next season.”
Reynders is the first rider to join the 2020 Axeon roster.