Leah Kirchman has signed a two-year extension to her contract with the Sunweb Women's Team through the end of 2022. In a press release from the team, the Canadian time trial champion said the team is the perfect place for her to continue to grow as a rider and mentor new athletes.

"I am happy to extend my contract with the team for two more seasons. I am impressed with how the team is adapting to the challenges posed by the current global pandemic and modifying their program for the future while prioritizing the health of their riders and staff."

"I believe this environment will allow me to continue to grow as a rider while also helping to mentor those around me."

Sunweb is one of the few teams to announce contract renewals with riders at this time; due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all races have been cancelled until July 1 and men's and women's World Tour events until August 1. Cycling teams rely heavily on funding from sponsors, and the pandemic has affected many businesses, making the future of several teams uncertain.

Kirchman joined the team in 2016 under co-title sponsor Liv Planteur, and had an outstanding five years of international racing. The year before joining the team, he won two stages at the Amgen Tour of California. He followed that up with a stage win and 8th overall at the Giro Rosa, two wins at the Grand Prix Gatino, a win at the Drentse 8, 2nd at La Course, 3rd overall at the Ladies Tour of Norway and Tour of Chongmin Island, and 3rd at the Prudential Ride London.

"Kirchman proved to be a versatile athlete who can handle a variety of terrain. In addition to his strong showing at GC, he won the prologue and time trial and is an integral member of the successful team time trial team." Kirchmann's all-around ability makes him an important member of the team and he is willing to do everything in his power to support his teammates."

Sunweb also announced that Franziska Koch, signed as a trainee last August, has renewed her one-year contract with the team. This season, Koch helped teammate Floortje Mackaij to a third-place finish.

"I am very happy to stay and continue working for Team Sunweb next year. This team gives me the best possibilities and opportunities to develop into a world class rider.