The reigning junior world champion has been a rider of the Jumbo-Visma Development Team since 1 January this year. Strand Hagenes recently got into the spotlight by winning Le Triptyque des Monts et Châteaux’s final stage and finishing second in the general classification. In addition, the young Norwegian finished third in the Giro del Belvedere last Monday.

Strand Hagenes is happy with the opportunity he gets from Team Jumbo-Visma. “This long-term contract allows me to develop in the same environment for a longer period. That is good for my development and gives me confidence. Hopefully I can continue to grow to be ready for the pro peloton in 2024. Progressing from the Development Team to the professional team at Team Jumbo-Visma is a great perspective. Since I’ve been here, I’ve noticed that this team suits me. My experiences in this environment have been outstanding and it is the perfect place to continue developing myself”, the Norwegian says.

“In addition, I like that I can continue to combine my school with top sport”, the talented rider continues. “That is very important to me and I am grateful to the team and my education that this combination can be made. I am happy to be part of Team Jumbo-Visma for the coming years.”

With Strand Hagenes, Head of Development Robbert de Groot sees the seventh rider transfer from Jumbo-Visma Development Team to the professional branch of manager Richard Plugge’s team. De Groot also sees excellent talent in Strand Hagenes. “Per is a special and talented cyclist. With this long-term programme, we express confidence in him. Together with Per, we will put together an optimal development program to see whether we can fully utilize his potential. We want Per to get acquainted with the pro peloton in phases, starting in 2024. This introduction takes place in training as well as in races. In 2022 and 2023 he will still be a part of the development team. Through the Young Team Jumbo-Visma programme, talented riders like Per can get a taste of the professional team thanks to the integration within that development programme. We are very much looking forward to working with Per in the coming years.”

Sportive director Merijn Zeeman is very pleased to sign Strand Hagenes for a longer period with Team Jumbo-Visma. “After great scouting work by the development team’s staff, Per’s development continues steadily. Our World Tour team currently houses several cycling stars, but we would like to develop a new generation of leaders ourselves. Per belongs to the group of riders who will have the opportunity to grow to that level. We take all the time we need for that so that he can continue to grow quietly within his potential.”