VUB Charts Course for Cycling Management Success

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) launches the fourth edition of the Expert Class in Cycling Management today. Over twelve Thursdays and a three-day international study trip, participants will delve into the world of the cycling industry. This program, a collaboration between VUB, the Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, and Sportcareers, offers fresh insights into the business and organizational side of cycling. “This program is unique in the Low Countries,” says Tom Daniels, program coordinator and managing director of Sportcareers. “We focus on underexplored aspects that are essential to making cycling successful as an industry.”

A New Generation of Cycling Innovators

The Expert Class aims to train, upskill, and inspire professionals to strengthen the cycling industry. “Our participants are more than just cycling enthusiasts,” says Jos Verschueren, Program Director of Sports Management, Cycling Management, and Esports Management at VUB. “What sets them apart is their passion to make an impact in the cycling world.”

The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from the economic dynamics within the peloton to marketing strategies that propel teams to the top. A standout feature is the case study on the Soudal Brussels Universities Cyclocross, which will be held for the seventh time on Sunday, February 16, 2025, on the VUB and ULB campuses. “This case study examines not only successes but also challenges and how to address them,” Daniels explains.

In early May, participants can join an (optional) three-day study trip to the UCI in Aigle and the IOC in Lausanne. On-site, program alumni will provide exclusive guest lectures and networking opportunities.

Upon successfully completing the program, participants receive a certificate in Expert Class in Cycling Management.

Alumni Making a Difference Behind the Scenes

The Expert Class has already produced an impressive roster of alumni who highly recommend the program. “I’ve always known I had a burning passion for cycling. The Expert Class in Cycling Management only fueled that fire. Cycling is pure passion, and passion is contagious. Imagine being surrounded by true ‘cycling aficionados’ for half a year,” shares Steven De Grave, a 2024 alumnus and Digital Lawyer specializing in Data, Tech & Sports at De Groote-De Man Advocaten.

Jan Polley, a 2022 alumnus, adds: “The ECCM program was the catalyst for me to participate in and pass the UCI Riders’ Agent Exam. This program brings people closer to the operational side of cycling.”

Jos Verschueren concludes that the program's strength lies in the impact of its alumni. “What motivates us time and again is the enthusiasm of our alumni. This program doesn’t just stop at sharing knowledge or sharpening skills; it’s a springboard to new opportunities and valuable connections within the cycling industry.”

About the seminar series

• Where: Scott Sportech Benelux, Karel Van Miertstraat 7, 3070 Kortenberg
• When: Series of 12 seminars, held biweekly from January to June 2025, every Thursday from 2 PM to 9 PM. First session: Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 2 PM. Study trip in early May.
• Who: Open to anyone interested in the commercial and economic aspects of cycling.

Interested in joining? Spots are limited. Send your CV and motivation letter to tom@sportcareers.be.

For more information, visit: www.expertclasscycling.be

Contact 

• Jos Verschueren 0477/39 12 32 Jos.Verschueren@vub.be 
• Tom Daniels 0499/22 16 58 tom@sportcareers.be