'I'm excited to start from scratch' – former cyclo-cross world champion reboots road career after a year out
Fem van Empel put her career on pause for an "indefinite period" last year
Cyclo-cross world champion Fem van Empel has decided to return to road racing after a year-long hiatus. The 24-year-old Dutch rider announced her decision in December after losing her passion for the sport. Van Empel, who was with Visma-Lease a Bike at the time, cited a loss of motivation and enjoyment as the reasons for her departure.
Upon rejoining the sport, Van Empel has signed with French team FDJ United-SUEZ. She expressed her excitement about starting afresh, stating that she is eager to have fun and rediscover the joy of cycling. Among her new teammates will be Tour de France Femmes champion Demi Vollering and emerging British rider Lauren Dickson.
Van Empel's last professional road race was the Choralis Fourmies Féminine in mid-September last year, which she did not finish. FDJ United-SUEZ general manager Stephen Delacourt emphasized the team's commitment to supporting Van Empel in her return to racing. The team aims to help her rediscover her love for the sport, her smile, and her ability to fully express herself. The specific dates and details of Van Empel's first races with FDJ United-SUEZ have yet to be announced.
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