Picnic PostNL to launch investigation into alleged culture of fear

The Picnic PostNL professional cycling team has announced an independent investigation into its internal culture following reports of a “culture of fear” and “dictatorship” within the organization.

An investigation by NOS Sport and the cycling platform In De Waaier, involving 71 current and former employees, detailed allegations of excessive control, intimidation, and a lack of psychological support. Testimonies described an unsafe working environment where dissent could lead to professional consequences. Former rider Martijn Tusveld shared that the pressure and management style had severely impacted his mental health, leading to thoughts of self-harm.

Team management, including owner Iwan Spekenbrink and sporting director Rudi Kemna, have denied the characterization of the team as a dictatorship. Kemna expressed being “heavily distressed” by the allegations, stating that the team strives to lead with openness and safety. The team maintains that while experiences may vary, they will take the findings of the upcoming independent probe seriously to implement necessary improvements.