Tim Naberman

After making his debut with the Development program in 2019, Tim adapted quickly to the increased intensity at the different races he did, where he started to “feel stronger” after some tough racing, before he ultimately made the step up to WorldTour in 2022.

Tim is a pugnacious rider who is always willing to go on the attack for the team or work hard on the front of the bunch, something that is highlighted as one of the reasons he loves the sport.

“It’s a bit strange but I really enjoy hurting myself during races and knowing that you have given it your all when you step off the bike at the end of the day. I especially found that this year with the team when we were all working together; it feels good.”

Hailing from a cycling family, both of Tim’s parents rode bikes and his dad was an amateur cyclist who stopped racing at around the age of 23. Although he played other sports, especially football, he admits he “wasn’t the best” at that and went looking for something else to do. Joining a local cycling club after some advice from his parents, Tim hasn’t looked back since and has grown as a rider year on year.

“When you’re younger it’s all about yourself but now it’s about being part of the success, whether that be you or someone else on the team. I like when you make a plan and succeed, that’s in the end what gives the satisfaction and motivation to keep on going.”

Labelling himself as “stubborn”, Tim says that he won’t take no for an answer with some things and will always try to make something work, not giving up easily. He’s also a “social” person who likes to be around other people and prefers not to be alone, and finally he describes himself as “fun” – always trying to create a good environment and atmosphere within the group. It’s that approach which has seen Tim develop and grow into more of a road captain, bringing his unique qualities.

“I think I am someone who can think about everyone and the bigger picture and can also have fun while doing it. Maybe the motivation to see it as a team effort also grows from that.”

From that, particularly in his time with the Development program, Tim found the most important thing was finding that balance between the moments to “put the pressure on the guys” so that they took things seriously, but also having enough time to make it the experience fun too.

When he’s not riding the bike then Tim half-jokes that you can always find him doing something as he finds it hard to sit still and relax, and that he likes to be kept busy; putting his time to good use by washing his car – or spending quality time with friends and family. Interestingly, Tim is a “pretty flexible” guy who’s hidden talent is that he can put sun cream on his own back without any help.