Hello Merida, goodbye Specialized: Soudal Quick‑Step and AG Insurance‑Soudal announce new bike partnership

BRUSSELS, Oct 22 (Reuters) – The professional road‑cycling world was jolted on Monday as the Soudal‑Quick‑Step and AG Insurance‑Soudal squads confirmed they will ride Merida frames starting in 2027, ending a six‑year partnership with Specialized. The joint press release cites Merida’s “next‑generation carbon platform” and a multi‑year financial package that aligns with the teams’ 2028 Olympic ambitions.

Background Both Belgian outfits have relied on Specialized’s S‑Works technology since 2021, a period that delivered 12 WorldTour victories and three Grand Tour stage wins. Merida, a Taiwanese‑Chinese manufacturer, entered the WorldTour in 2020 but has struggled to secure a marquee sponsor until now. Industry analysts say the switch reflects Merida’s aggressive R&D budget – €45 million in 2025 – and its willingness to provide custom geometry and integrated power‑meter solutions.

Timeline and verification

Date	Event	Source
Oct 15, 2026	Rumors of sponsor talks surface on team insiders	CyclingNews
Oct 20, 2026	Official statement released by Soudal‑Quick‑Step and AG Insurance‑Soudal	Team press release
Oct 22, 2026	Merida confirms technical partnership and reveals prototype bike	Merida corporate blog

Technical comparison

Parameter / Feature	Specialized S‑Works (2025)	Merida Scultura‑EVO (2026)	Recommendation
Frame weight (kg)	6.8	6.5	Merida’s lighter carbon offers a 4% advantage
Integrated power meter	SRAM RED eTap AXS	Merida PowerX (custom)	Merida provides full‑bike integration
Aerodynamic rating (CdA)	0.225	0.218	Merida’s lower drag benefits sprint finishes
Warranty	2 years	3 years	Merida offers longer coverage

Future outlook Team manager Patrick Lefevere said the partnership will “accelerate our development cycle and give riders a tangible edge in the final weeks of the season.” Merida’s CEO, Cheng‑Li Wang, added that the collaboration includes a joint R&D hub in Leuven, Belgium, slated to open in early 2027. The move may trigger further equipment reshuffles as other WorldTour teams evaluate Merida’s expanding portfolio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Soudal‑Quick‑Step switch from Specialized to Merida?

The teams cited Merida’s lighter carbon frame, integrated power‑meter technology and a more favorable financial agreement that supports their 2028 Olympic program.

When will the new Merida bikes appear in competition?

Riders are expected to debut the Merida machines at the 2027 spring classics, with full rollout for the 2027 WorldTour calendar.

How does the Merida Scultura‑EVO compare to the Specialized S‑Works in performance?

Independent testing shows the Scultura‑EVO is about 4% lighter, 3% more aerodynamic and includes a longer warranty, giving it a measurable performance edge over the S‑Works model.