With the further intensified connection, Shimano, renowned component manufacturer from Japan - in association with Paul Lange, already sponsor of the STEVENS Racing Team for many years - relies on a long-term cooperation with the Hamburg team and complements the team sponsors Abus, DT Swiss, Sonax and Wahoo.

In addition, Werner von Hacht, manager of the team, was able to negotiate Marcel Meisen a new contract for two years. The 33-year-old from Stolberg already competed for the Hamburg team last season and won his seventh DM gold in the elite class at this year's German Cyclocross Championship in Luckenwalde. For the new cross season, the team has also strengthened with Silas Kuschla, German Champion U19 2022, now U23 rider, and Frederik Hähnel.

STEVENS Racing Team Sports Director Jens Schwedler adds: "With Marcel, we have a highly experienced athlete in the team who will bring all his experience to bear to make our young athletes in particular fit for their further sporting future with successive improvements and with a view to long-term development. One of them is Silas Kuschla, who has already set a first clear signal with his U19 DM title. But we also expect a personal performance explosion from our second newcomer Frederik Hähnel, as we can offer him a highly professional environment in which he can now optimally develop his potential. The three signings also allow us to strengthen the team decisively."

STEVENS team boss and company founder Werner von Hacht concludes: "Marcel is without question one of the best, if not the best German cross rider. With his signing, we are sending a strong signal for the future, not only for the development of the team, but also for the external image of cross sport."

STEVENS is looking forward to the new 2022/23 cross season and wishes all riders every success.