Danish rider Theodor Storm has revealed a remarkable recovery after battling a rare nervous condition, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and is set to join the Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank development team for 2025.
The 19-year-old Theodor Storm, who was set to join Ineos Grenadiers for the 2024 season, has shared his personal story of overcoming a serious health challenge. After being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome following the European Track Championships in January, the promising young rider found himself facing a life-threatening battle. Although Storm was never able to race for the Ineos Grenadiers, he has made a strong recovery and is now gearing up for the next stage of his career.
In an Instagram post, Storm reflected on his health struggles, describing 2024 as “the toughest year of my life.” He revealed that, following the European Track Championships, he was hospitalized for months as he fought the rare condition. Despite the gravity of the situation, Storm expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support of his family and the Ineos Grenadiers team, who stood by him throughout his recovery.
“I went from achieving my dream of becoming a professional cyclist one moment to fighting for my life the next,” Storm wrote, emphasizing the emotional toll of the experience. “I’m grateful for my family’s support during this time, and also for Ineos Grenadiers, who had my back even when I wasn’t racing or training.”
Now fully recovered, Storm is ready to return to competitive racing with Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank, the German development team. His decision to join the squad was made in consultation with Ineos Grenadiers, and he will continue to receive training and support from the WorldTour team. Storm will ease back into the sport under the guidance of the development squad, which Ineos Grenadiers has partnered with to provide young riders with essential racing experience.
Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank’s partnership with Ineos Grenadiers was officially announced in November, with Ineos performance director Dr. Scott Drawer noting that the German team would provide an ideal environment for young riders to progress. “Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank offers an outstanding competitive environment for our youngest riders to gain valuable racing experience,” Dr. Drawer said. “These riders will continue to receive coaching and support from Ineos Grenadiers staff while being placed with the German team.”
Alongside Storm, fellow Danish rider Peter Øxenberg will also join Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank next season, after signing with Ineos Grenadiers earlier in 2024. Both riders are considered rising stars in the sport, and their move to the German squad is seen as a crucial step in their development towards the WorldTour.
“It’s an exciting moment to see Peter and Theodor joining up with Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank,” Dr. Drawer added. “We believe it’s the perfect environment for them to progress and prepare for life in the WorldTour. Both are superb young talents, and we’re looking forward to supporting them in the upcoming season.”
Øxenberg echoed the sentiment, calling the opportunity to race with Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank while continuing to receive guidance from Ineos Grenadiers’ performance team a “perfect scenario.” He added, “It’s going to be a valuable step on the road to turning professional, and I can’t wait to continue my development in 2025.”
For Storm, the next year is set to mark a fresh start after a challenging period. As he looks ahead to his future in cycling, he remains hopeful and determined. “I’m over the worst and back to full training, but there’s still work to be done,” he said. “I am excited to return to road racing next season with Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank and take the next step in my recovery.”
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