Name: Ron Aspers
Age: 59 jaar
Residence: Reuver (The Netherlands)

What made you join Team Visma | Lease a Bike's Fan Peloton? 
"I've been a big cycling fan for a long time. As a small child, I used to go to the Dutch National Cycling Championships with my father, and later I followed Frans Maassen, a fellow regional cyclist. I've always followed Frans and I'm still in touch with him. When we talk, it's often about cycling and Team Visma | Lease a Bike. I've been to the Tour a few times and the whole atmosphere around the Team Visma Lease a Bike bus is amazing. It feels like a big, welcoming family."

What do you like most about being a member?
"I like everything you do: the podcasts, the documentaries, the interviews, the behind-the-scenes jokes. For me, that's the added value of being a member. You get more information than the regular fan. What also appeals to me is the role of Richard Plugge. How do you manage such an organisation? I work as a school director in education myself, so I find that interesting to see."

Have you ever been to an event? 
"No, I would love to visit the head office in Den Bosch, but I haven't had the chance yet. I have been to see the team live in the Tour twice, in 2019 and 2024. I thought it was fantastic to get so close to the team. The riders are very approachable and don't act haughty at all. It's to your credit that you connect with people. It's no surprise that other Fan Peloton members say it's one big family. Even if you're just a spectator, you feel like you belong with the team."

What appeals to you so much? 
"On the one hand, the accessibility and approachability, and on the other hand, the professionalism and transparency. By opening up your data, you are making yourselves vulnerable, but you are also showing that you are transparent. I find that very special. The systematic approach appeals to me enormously."

Who is your favourite cyclist on the team?
"I have several favourites. The first one I'll mention is Wout. He's a fantastic team player and I liked how he took Jonas in tow in the Tour de France. I also have a lot of admiration for Jonas. I think what he achieved after his crash in Itzulia Basque Country was incredibly impressive. But I also enjoy watching someone like Bart Lemmen. He was flown in at the last minute for the Tour in 2024 and did a tremendous job for the team. I love seeing how all the staff members manage to get everyone on the same page."

Suppose you could ask one of the riders a question. What would you want to know? 
"I'm very curious to know what made Jonas decide to ride both the Giro and the Tour."

What is your connection to cycling? 
"I used to cycle a lot, but I have to admit that I don't do it enough now. When I go cycling or spinning, I always wear your Tour shirt with my own name on it. I try to follow all the races as much as possible."

What would make membership even better for you? 
"I understand that it's not always possible, but I would really like it if they could organise a meet & greet once a year, so that as a Fan Peloton member you have that extra opportunity to get closer to the staff and riders. Otherwise, I am a very satisfied member. I really enjoy everything you share with us."

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