Name: Helle Lundberg
Age: 70 years old
Residence: Grindsted (Danmark)

What is the reason you joined the Fan Peloton of Team Visma | Lease a Bike?
"I joined the Fan Peloton because I wanted to provide extra support to the team. I signed up in 2024, but I had been collecting team memorabilia long before that. At an auction in 2022, I purchased a large signed print of the photograph that hung on your victory wall: Jonas Vingegaard crossing the finish line as the winner of Stage 18 of the 2022 Tour de France. The photo is displayed in the hallway of my home, where every visitor can see it.

As a journalist, I am also always interested in exclusive information about the riders, new signings, training methods, staff members, tactics, and sponsorship news."

Why do you feel connected to the team?
"I feel connected to the team for several reasons. One of them is that the team's values closely align with my own personal values. Being able to be yourself while remaining a team player first and foremost—someone who is willing to put personal interests aside if it helps the team achieve greater goals. I admire how Richard Plugge succeeded in rebuilding the remnants of Team Rabobank into an exceptionally well-managed and highly respected team. The return of Rabobank as a sponsor is further evidence of that success.

During my career with the police, I was also involved in strategic decision-making, setting objectives, and determining how to achieve those goals through the right tactics—something the management and sports directors of Team Visma | Lease a Bike excel at.

I also greatly admire the way the riders deal with serious injuries and periods when everything seems to go against them. Their perseverance and the way they support teammates during difficult times deserve tremendous respect."

Have you ever attended one of our events?
"Unfortunately, I have not yet had the opportunity to visit the High Performance Center, but I have attended several races. When the Tour de France started in Denmark, I was there for all three stages. I have also driven to Flanders on my own two years in a row to watch Wout van Aert compete in the Tour of Flanders. It was an amazing experience."

Who are your favorite riders on the team?
"Wow, that’s like asking me to choose between my children. I first discovered Jonas Vingegaard in 2018 when he broke the Strava record on the Coll de Rates. I have followed him ever since, and I was thrilled when he signed with (the then) Jumbo-Visma. When he rode his first Tour de France and immediately finished second overall, I was completely won over. Since then, I have watched almost every race and stage he has competed in on television.

I suspect that during rainy stages I am more nervous than Trine herself, and at least as happy whenever he wins. I love his typically Danish sense of humor and the affection he shows for his family. Moreover, unlike many others, he seems to have little interest in expensive cars or flashy watches."

Wout is the reason I started following cyclo-cross a few years ago during the winter season. Everyone loves Wout. The way he always puts in the work for his teammates is truly impressive. And, like Jonas, he never stops fighting, even after serious crashes.

I have admired Victor Campenaerts for much longer. His smile, sense of humor, and social nature make him a very special person. Among the women, Marianne Vos is my favorite. She is an icon for girls and women all around the world.

If you could ask one of them a question, what would you like to know?
"I remember Jonas mentioning a few years ago that he can be quite lazy by nature. I would love to ask him: how do you overcome that when you have to train in the rain, snow, and wind, while you would much rather be sitting on the couch watching a movie?"

Do you ride your bike a lot yourself? 
"Yes. When I was growing up, a bicycle was our main means of transportation for getting to school, visiting friends, or cycling to the beach during the summer. Since then, I have always loved cycling. It gives me a sense of freedom and helps clear my mind of worries and thoughts."

What would make your membership even better?
"I would enjoy having access to exclusive auctions for Fan Peloton members, where we could purchase items before they become available to the general public. A guided tour of the team headquarters or online Q&A sessions with riders and staff members would also be fantastic."

Do you want to become member of the Fan Peloton? Join it via this link.