29/08/2026
Yesterday, together with family, friends and the entire cycling community, we said goodbye to our founder, Frans Verbeeck.
In a golden era of cycling, he took on the greatest riders of his generation, driven by remarkable determination and an unwavering work ethic. In 1973, he claimed the
Belgian national champion’s jersey and went on to win some of the sport’s most prestigious classics, including La Flèche Wallonne, the Amstel Gold Race and Omloop
Het Volk twice. With his characteristic honesty and sense of humour, he also left his mark on cycling through memorable words such as his iconic remark: “Formidabel afgezien”.
After his professional cycling career, Frans continued to pursue his passion for the sport, this time as an entrepreneur. In 1977, he started out in a small garage with a big dream: to create the very best cycling clothing. With pride, he named his company after his son, Marc.
Under his inspiring leadership, Vermarc Sport grew from an ambitious family business into an internationally respected brand, deeply rooted in the professional peloton.
Until the very end, Frans remained deeply passionate about cycling and everyone who is part of it. He had a particular affection for young riders and local racing — the foundation of the cycling tradition to which he himself was so deeply connected.
His vision, fighting spirit, entrepreneurial drive and warm smile will forever remain part of the DNA of our company. Every rider who wears our clothing today and in the future will carry a small piece of Frans’ legacy with them.
Thank you for everything, Frans.
The final climb is over.
Rest in peace, champion.
