Hugo Hofstetter, the 29-year-old French sprinter and Classics specialist, has signed a two-year contract with Israel – Premier Tech (IPT) for the 2024 season. Hofstetter was a key member of IPT’s sprint and Classics squad in 2020 and 2021, winning La Samyn and scoring several top-ten finishes in the bunch sprints. He left the team at the end of 2021 to join Arkea-Samsic, where he helped the team secure a WorldTour license for 2023.
IPT owner Sylvan Adams welcomed Hofstetter back to the team, saying: “Hugo is a versatile and reliable rider, with a fast finish. He’s able to sprint from the bunch, but can also get over climbs, and be in a position to win from a more selective group. He is a good teammate, and always brings a good spirit to races. Welcome back to your IPT family, Hugo.”
Hofstetter expressed his happiness to return to IPT, saying: “I really appreciate that Sylvan wanted to bring me back to the team. That’s a huge motivation for me. I will do the best I can to win as many races as possible. It will also be great to see my former teammates again, as I’ve always enjoyed riding with them. I’m really looking forward to 2024.”
Hofstetter will strengthen IPT’s sprint and Classics group
Hofstetter will join a strong sprint and Classics group at IPT, which includes new signings Ethan Vernon and Pascal Ackermann, as well as Riley Pickrell and Oded Kogut, who graduated from IPT Academy. Hofstetter will be able to lead or support the team’s sprinters in the biggest races, as well as target his own opportunities in the one-day races.
Sports Manager Rik Verbrugghe praised Hofstetter’s abilities and experience, saying: “Not only is he a fast sprinter, he will also reinforce our Classics group significantly, being able to score points during the one-day races as well as in the sprint finishes. Hugo will also bring experience to our youngsters coming from the IPT Academy team and he can fit perfectly in the leadouts in the biggest races for our leaders.”
Hofstetter is currently racing in the Vuelta a España
Hofstetter is currently racing in the Vuelta a España for Arkea-Samsic, where he has been part of the team’s successful campaign. He has been involved in several breakaways and sprints, finishing fourth on stage 5 and sixth on stage 12. He is also ranked third in the points classification, behind Fabio Jakobsen and Jasper Philipsen.
Hofstetter will aim to finish his season with Arkea-Samsic on a high note, before switching back to IPT next year. He will be one of the riders to watch in the upcoming World Championships in Australia, where he will represent France in the road race.
