“They don’t back him 100%… but if he leaves Visma, he could lose more than money.” That’s the blunt warning surrounding Jonas Vingegaard as rumors intensify about a potential team switch that could double his salary — but possibly derail his career.
The Danish two-time Tour de France champion has reportedly received lucrative offers from rival teams, with figures that far exceed his current earnings at Team Visma–Lease a Bike. On paper, the move seems like a no-brainer: a massive pay raise, more leadership autonomy, and a fresh start after a turbulent year marked by injury and uncertainty.
But not everyone is convinced this is the right time for a change.
“Money doesn’t guarantee success,” said a source close to the peloton. “Visma built Vingegaard into a Tour winner. Their structure, strategy, and trust in his abilities were key. Leaving that behind for a bigger paycheck could be a huge gamble.”
Vingegaard’s situation is uniquely delicate. While he has been the undisputed GC leader at Visma in recent seasons, injuries and the team’s deep roster have led to speculation about internal shifts in support. Some insiders suggest he no longer feels completely backed by management — a sentiment that may be fueling his openness to outside offers.
Yet the risk of stepping away from a proven system is enormous. Moving to a new team means adapting to different tactics, staff, training methods, and even team culture — all of which can disrupt performance at the very top level of the sport. In cycling, as history has shown, even the most talented riders can struggle when removed from the environment that made them great.
With the 2026 season on the horizon and Vingegaard still recovering from his crash at the Itzulia Basque Country earlier this year, every decision he makes now carries extra weight.
Will he follow the money — or stick with the team that helped him conquer the Champs-Élysées?
Whatever choice he makes, one thing is clear: this isn’t just about salary. It’s about legacy, loyalty, and the fine line between ambition and overreach. For Vingegaard, the next move could define the rest of his career.
