Date: 10 March 2023
Nino de Jong began the transition to joining the Hagens Berman Axeon Cycling Team on August 24, 2022, when he made his stagiaire debut at Druivenkoers Overijse. Nino joined the team from JEGG-DJR Academy.
“I’m really looking forward to riding with the team and racing,” said an excited Nino. “I spent part of February with the team at training camp in Italy. Everyone was really welcoming. I think Hagens Berman Axeon will be a great fit for me.”
The 18-year-old from Steenbergen, Netherlands is the son of former professional football player Ad de Jong. Nino made a big impression in 2021 with his victory at De Grote Prijs van Steenbergen.
“The transition from the juniors to U23 was a big step for me,” said Nino. “It's much more difficult. More demanding. But I think races that have a bit of climbing, they suit me. And I can handle it.”
“Nino has a lot to prove, but he is with us because of his potential,” said sport director Koos Moerenhout. “And this in combination with the speed at which he has developed in a few years. Many people probably don’t know this but he has only been on the bike for two years.”
After Maikel Zijlaard, Nino is only the second Dutchman to join the Axeon squad. Nino will officially join the team in 2023.
