Ciccone will leave Lidl-Trek at the end of 2026

Giulio Ciccone has officially left Lidl-Trek after eight seasons with them. The announcement, made by mutual agreement between the team and the Abruzzo-born climber, marks the end of a long chapter that began in 2019. His final appearance for the US team will be at the Giro di Lombardia on Saturday, October 10th.

The news, which had been in the air for a few weeks, was formalized on October 9, 2026, via a statement posted on Lidl-Trek's social media channels. The team confirmed his separation ahead of the natural expiration of his contract (which originally bound him to the team).

"After eight seasons together, the Team and Giulio have reached the mutual decision to part ways."

The early divorce stems from transfer market logic tied to the profound revamping of the Lidl-Trek roster. The team has undergone a massive transfer campaign, exceeding the maximum number of riders under contract. To make room for the new additions and balance the roster, management has opted to reduce its strong Italian roster, releasing the Abruzzo native.

Although the new team hasn't been announced yet, all the market rumors from the main sports press are converging in one very specific direction: the rider from Chieti is very close to signing with the Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team, a Swiss professional team.

In the new team, Ciccone would regain the status of an absolute leader in the big climbs, while still guaranteeing himself a top-level calendar comparable to the WorldTour races.

There's talk of an agreement based on a three-year contract that will redefine his upcoming seasonal objectives.

With this historic chapter now over, Ciccone is preparing to experience the final bends in the Lidl-Trek jersey on the roads of Lombardy, ready to leave his final mark.