The changes that occur at the end of each season bring with them new challenges, each in different areas. Bahrain – Victorious is fully confident of finding new possibilities with the arrival of Dutch sporting director Aart Vierhouten.
Upon his arrival, the new and experienced sporting director indicated the reason that led him to sign for the team: “I am particularly attracted by the philosophy with which Bahrain Victorious wants to work in the coming years. In fact, I will focus above all on the so-called classic core of the grand tours and classics. The team wants to progress in the coming years. Matej Mohoric and Fred Wright are men who have already established themselves in the classics. Be more balanced in your schedule,” he said for Wielerflits.
The roster of the Bahrain team does not stand out for being the largest or richest in numbers, however it has interesting names to work with both in the classics with Mohoric, Wright and the sprinter Phil Bauhaus, and in the online races it has versatile riders such as Bilbao, Buitrago and the recent incorporation of Martínez.
He knows that the work that awaits him lies in the strength of the group and the growth of the talents that are there: “Not everyone is a rider like Remco Evenepoel and Tadej Pogacar, who have been there since their first race with the professionals. There are also talents who still have to grow for a few more years. This awareness is certainly present in this team,” he said.
Fernando Estupiñán
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Aart Vierhouten, Sporting Director of Bahrain Victorious
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good morning, Aart! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. As the new sporting director of Bahrain Victorious, your arrival comes at a pivotal time for the team. What motivated you to join this particular squad?
Aart Vierhouten (AV): Good morning! Thank you for having me. I was drawn to Bahrain Victorious primarily because of the team’s ambitious philosophy and vision for the future. They have a clear desire to evolve and progress in prominent competitions, particularly the grand tours and classics. That commitment to growth aligns perfectly with my aspirations, and I’m excited to support that journey.
TNE: That’s an exciting perspective! You mentioned a focus on the “classic core” of the grand tours and classics. Can you elaborate on what that entails and how you plan to achieve it with the current roster?
AV: Absolutely. The ‘classic core’ refers to some of the most prestigious one-day races and week-long tours. My approach will involve leveraging the strengths of our current riders, such as Matej Mohoric and Fred Wright, who have already made their mark in the classics. We also have Phil Bauhaus for sprints and versatile riders like Bilbao and Buitrago, which gives us a unique advantage. I believe we can find a balance in their schedules that maximizes their potential and prepares them for success.
TNE: It sounds like you have a well-thought-out strategy. However, the team isn’t the largest or the richest in terms of numbers. How do you plan to foster growth and enhance team strength despite those limitations?
AV: While it’s true we don’t have the largest roster, the key lies in cultivating what we have. Quality over quantity is essential. We have talented riders with room to grow. Not every athlete will follow the same trajectory as stars like Remco Evenepoel or Tadej Pogacar, who performed exceptionally from the get-go. Our focus will be on nurturing talent through tailored development programs, ensuring they reach their peak when it matters most.
TNE: That’s an insightful take. There’s often a lot of pressure on sporting directors and teams to deliver immediate results. How do you envision managing that pressure, especially in the early stages of your tenure?
AV: Managing pressure is part of the job, and I embrace it as a challenge. I believe that by setting realistic expectations and focusing on incremental improvements, we can build a sustainable competitive environment. Success doesn’t happen overnight; it’s about creating a cohesive unit that learns and grows together. I’m optimistic that with time, our hard work will be reflected in results.
TNE: You’ve certainly got a clear vision. Looking ahead, what are your primary goals for Bahrain Victorious in the upcoming season?
AV: My main goals include fostering unity within the team, developing our riders’ capabilities, and enhancing our performance in key events. We want to ensure that the riders feel supported and valued, which I believe is crucial for their development. By the end of the season, I hope to see measurable progress, whether that’s through individual achievements or our collective performance.
TNE: It’s inspiring to hear about your approach, Aart. As you step into this role, what excites you the most about the future of Bahrain Victorious?
AV: The most exhilarating aspect is the potential for growth and success we have ahead of us. I see immense talent and dedication within the team, and it’s electrifying to ponder what we can achieve together. I’m eager to embark on this journey with my colleagues and, most importantly, with the riders. Together, we can build something special.
TNE: Thank you for sharing your insights with us today, Aart. We wish you and Bahrain Victorious all the best for the upcoming season!
AV: Thank you very much! It was a pleasure discussing our future. I appreciate your support!