Dutch cyclist **Fem van Empel** has returned to professional cycling, joining the FDJ United-Suez team immediately. The team officially confirmed her arrival, marking her return to the sport after a period of retirement. Van Empel, who has won three world titles in cyclocross—a form of cycling held on off-road terrain—had stepped away from her career at the end of 2025 to focus on her mental health and address physical challenges. Now 24, she is back in the saddle and will compete wearing the FDJ United-Suez jersey this winter. Van Empel shared her enthusiasm for this new phase, saying, "I am ready to live a new adventure and very excited about starting over. Most of all, I want to have a lot of fun." Her return has been described as both personal and professional, with her focus on rediscovering the joy of cycling. Stephen Delcourt, General Manager of FDJ United-Suez, emphasized the importance of her return, stating, "Fem's arrival represents a lot for us. We all know the great champion she is and everything she has already achieved. But today, our priority is above all to support her in order for her to rediscover the joy of riding, the smile and the freedom to express herself fully." Delcourt also spoke about the team's broader vision, noting that with Van Empel, along with other athletes like Anja Grossmann and Kate Courtney, FDJ United-Suez is working to build a multidisciplinary project. This approach aims to welcome top athletes with diverse backgrounds, personalities, and goals. He added, "Our role goes beyond performance. We want to create an environment in which our athletes can progress, feel supported and flourish, both on the bike and outside. More than anything, we are looking forward to seeing Fem smile on her bike, enjoy competition and flourish fully as an athlete and as a woman. The rest will come naturally."