There is always a “domino knock-on effect” when drivers start changing passengers and we are seeing that trend continue as we move towards the 2026 season.
Further to our previous bulletin, stalwart German Adrian Peter lost Joel Hoffmann to the sidecar of Stephan Wijers but has been quick to snap up twenty-seven-year-old Julian Zimmermann, formerly alongside young German hot-shot Leon Hofmann. The pair competed in several FIM rounds in 2025 as well as featuring in the German Nations team in Heerde. Zimmermann is well known to Adrian Peter, as they competed regularly against each other in the German Championship and other Internationals.
Source: @smx.teampeter, Instagram
To crown his world title, new champion Koen Hermans announces the birth of the next generation in the shape of baby Liam Hermans, born 29/10/2025, looking every inch a champion!! Our congratulations go to Koen and his partner Milou with all best wishes for the future.
Staying with the Netherlands, the Verhees brothers Boyd and Peer, eighteen and seventeen years old respectively are going their separate ways after just one full season together. Boyd began his international career before his younger sibling was old enough to compete, but Peer has now decided to pursue a solo career going forward. Stepping into the hot seat with Boyd for 2026 is the experienced German-speaking Belgian Andy Schlinnertz aged twenty-seven. Schlinnertz is best known as former sidekick to Jan Hoormann, having competed in selected recent world rounds and the German Championship. The knowledge gained at that level will almost certainly be of benefit to the young Dutchman Verhees, anxious to develop and advance his own career.
Source: @robverhees_, Instagram
Yet more from Holland comes the news that Thom van de Lagemaat has laid claim to Han van Hal, he having moved from the sidecar of Stephan Wijers as previously reported. Thom has had a few quality names including three-times champion passenger Nicolas Musset assist him in recent races, but this latest partnership with van Hal looks to be a good arrangement, with a common language and a mutual desire to get the results.
Consistency is key, both on the mechanical front and driver/passenger relationship. We will all watch with interest to see the #99 duo of Thom van de Lagemaat and Han van Hal can match or better their results in 2026.
Finally, we get confirmation that Kelly Debruyne, partner to Ben van den Bogaart domestically, is returning to action as a Grand Prix driver, partnered by Aivar Van Der Wiel, another very experienced young athlete.
Source: @kellydebruyne9, Instagram
Kelly and Ben have a young daughter together and will almost certainly be travelling as a family to the races, with Ben offering advice and guidance along the way.
This is yet one more fascinating addition to the paddock, as Kelly, already a world championship points scorer, strives to make her mark once more in this rough, tough sport.
There will be much more to come before the wheels turn for the new season, so stay tuned here for all that new information and other news as it becomes available on www.fimsidecarcross.com along with all our social media outlets.
From Barry Nutley
