Belgian ProTeam Lotto's merger with WorldTour squad Intermarché-Wanty looks to be edging closer to reality after several members of staff received calls informing them of layoffs last week.
According to a report in Het Nieuwsblad, Lotto called various permanent employees on Friday, informing them that they won't be part of the new merged team.
Lotto CEO Jannie Haek has previously said that the team would not need to lay off any existing employees as a result of the merger, with the permanent staff members of the team staying on board, while the staff of Intermarché-Wanty, who are employed as contractors, were to be laid off.
Lotto has already waved goodbye to team manager Stéphane Heulot, with the Frenchman departing at the end of last month.
Heulot had been managing the team since 2023, overseeing 58 wins during his reign before leaving on September 30. The merged team will be overseen by Intermarché-Wanty boss Jean-François Bourlart.
"I'm the happiest man, but unhappy for my staff and riders because I loved this team and that's still the case. I'm happy with what I've experienced because, in my opinion, I've succeeded in my mission – we've brought the team back to the WorldTour."
The total riders across both teams under contract for 2026 adds up to 32 – more than the maximum of 30 allowed under WorldTour rules - though Intermarché-Wanty riders, including star Biniam Girmay, could be free to move elsewhere due to the merger situation.
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