Lotte Kopecky and Axel Merckx Marry in Quiet Bruges Ceremony

Belgian cycling superstar Lotte Kopecky and former professional cyclist Axel Merckx were married on Tuesday morning in a quiet, private ceremony at Bruges City Hall, according to Het Laatste Nieuws. The wedding was held in a small circle of close family and friends, reflecting the couple’s desire for privacy.

Kopecky, 30, and Merckx, 53, have been a couple since 2025, with their relationship becoming public knowledge earlier this year. The ceremony took place on Tuesday morning, with limited attendees. Former Belgian professional footballer Gilles De Bilde was among those present, as reported by VRT NWS.

A Union of Cycling Royalty

The marriage unites two generations of Belgian cycling royalty. Kopecky is widely regarded as Belgium’s premier female cyclist and one of the most dominant riders in the women’s peloton. With 72 career victories to her name, she is a two-time World Road Race Champion, three-time winner of the Tour of Flanders, and a six-time world champion on the track.

Axel Merckx carries one of the most famous names in cycling history as the son of Eddy Merckx, widely considered the greatest cyclist of all time. Axel built a respectable professional career of his own, highlighted by a stage win at the Giro d’Italia. ProCyclingUK noted that Merckx’s own cycling background gives the relationship a particular context, as he understands the pressures of elite racing.

A Relationship Built on Shared Understanding

Both Kopecky and Merckx have spoken openly about how their shared understanding of the cycling world strengthens their bond. In an interview earlier this year, Kopecky explained the significance of being with someone who comprehends the demands of her profession.

“Axel has a very positive impact,” Kopecky told Het Nieuwsblad in April. “He understands the life I lead. We won’t have discussions about the ‘being a cyclist’ aspect. That’s a big plus. We both know how the world we’re in works.”

Merckx echoed that sentiment in an interview with HLN, saying: “Understanding each other without having to explain everything makes a big difference. The most important thing is the balance we find together. If you’re happy in your private life, you’re automatically better at your work.”

Eddy Merckx Unable to Attend

Notably absent from the ceremony was Axel’s father, Eddy Merckx, who could not attend due to health issues. The 80-year-old cycling legend, who has undergone multiple hip surgeries in recent years, was reportedly recovering from another hip procedure, according to regional news outlet Hageland Actueel.

Kopecky’s Stellar 2026 Season

The wedding comes during another outstanding period in Kopecky’s career. In 2026 alone, she has won Nokere Koerse and Milano-Sanremo, and became European track champion in February — an event at which Merckx was present to support her.

Kopecky has previously spoken about how personal stability has positively impacted her professional performance. In a year-end interview with VRT NWS, she said: “Being in love is very nice. But especially stability greatly improves your performance. There is someone I can rely on who also shares the difficult moments. That’s more important than being in love.”

A New Chapter

The quiet ceremony in Bruges marks a new chapter for one of Belgium’s most high-profile sporting couples. The HLN article reporting the wedding became the most-read and most-shared piece on the site at the time of publication, underscoring the public fascination with the couple.

As Kopecky continues her 2026 season, the question remains how this new chapter will influence her racing. Both she and Merckx have expressed confidence that their partnership strengthens her performance. For now, the couple appears focused on their private happiness, having chosen to celebrate their union away from the public eye.

What to Watch For

With the wedding now behind them, attention turns to Kopecky’s upcoming racing calendar and whether the couple plans any larger celebration. Kopecky has previously stated she has no immediate desire for children, suggesting her focus remains firmly on her cycling career as she continues to build on her already remarkable legacy.