> DSM is known for its strict protocols, which entail a host of rules. “When I signed with the team, I chose to accept the rules,” says Vervaeke.

> “But sometimes they went a bit overboard with their rules,” believes a foreign rider who wishes to remain anonymous. “The rules were extreme, especially regarding attire.”

> “For certain occasions, you were required to wear a long coat. On the starting podium, one time you were required to wear your gloves, the next time no one was allowed to keep their gloves on.”

> Waeytens: “After the Clasica San Sebastian, I once received a call from the team: ‘You worked well. Tom Dumoulin was super pleased with you,’ they said. ‘But we did notice that you weren't wearing your podium cap when you went to sign the start sheet.’”

made me look up this old gem, god these stories are always so good