{"id":1861044,"date":"2026-04-01T17:39:56","date_gmt":"2026-04-01T14:39:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1861044"},"modified":"2026-04-01T17:39:56","modified_gmt":"2026-04-01T14:39:56","slug":"i-told-him-for-so-many-years-to-do-it-and-he-didnt-patrick-lefevere-reacts-to-remco-evenepoels-tour-of-flanders-debut-having-failed-to-convince-him-at-soudal-quickstep","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1861044","title":{"rendered":"&#8216;I told him for so many years to do it, and he didn&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere reacts to Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s Tour of Flanders debut, having failed to convince him at Soudal-QuickStep"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-1024-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTour of Flanders\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;I told him for so many years to do it, and he didn&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere reacts to Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s Tour of Flanders debut, having failed to convince him at Soudal-QuickStep<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nNews<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJames Moultrie <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-01T17:39:56Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n1 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Former team boss says star Belgian starting De Ronde is good for cycling, as Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe stay cautious when explaining secrecy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><figcaption class=\"mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Remco Evenepoel<\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"!m-0\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 sm:ml-1.5 font-base text-xs\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div role=\"dialog\" class=\"hidden fixed inset-0 z-[999999999999999999] bg-[#33333370] flex items-center justify-center p-6 newsletter-modal\" data-batch-endpoint=\"https:\/\/newsletter-subscribe.futureplc.com\/v2\/submission\/submit_batch\" data-batch-source=\"302\" data-component-name=\"Newsletter:Modal\">\n<div class=\"bg-neutral-100 rounded-xl shadow-xl w-full lg:w-2\/3 xl:w-1\/2 p-6 relative max-h-[95vh] overflow-y-auto\">\n<div id=\"newsletter-capture-modal\">\n<div class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0 bg-inherit font-ui-heading\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base font-article-copy\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<div data-component-name=\"Newsletter:NewsletterForm\">\n<hr class=\"modal_hr mt-3 mb-4 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"modal_footer block text-left opacity-80 text-[.8em] leading-[1.3em] mt-2 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline font-article-copy\">\nBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-b9bdd59d-6943-4959-9f71-fcb47c8c63a4\">While former team boss Patrick Lefevere said Remco Evenepoel finally making his Tour of Flanders is good for cycling, he couldn&#8217;t help but note how it was something he annoyingly failed to convince the Belgian star to do before he left Soudal-QuickStep for Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe.<\/p>\n<p>The German team created mass drama on Wednesday as it was confirmed that rumours swirling on Tuesday night were no April Fools joke and that Evenepoel would indeed take the start in Antwerp on Sunday.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b9bdd59d-6943-4959-9f71-fcb47c8c63a4-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Drawing reactions aplenty from the whole peloton, the Red Bull team bus was one of the busiest places after Wednesday&#8217;s race, even with their top finisher being Laurence Pithie in fifth, but also wandering around the VIP area was Lefevere.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Why Remco Evenepoel is right to make his Tour of Flanders debut now, and how he could challenge Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe have the makings of a great Tour of Flanders team, but is Remco Evenepoel the missing piece for taking on Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;They can have more money but you can&#8217;t buy the Tour&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere rates Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s chances of Tour de France success at Red Bull<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Initially, he didn&#8217;t want to speak about Evenepoel as he is no longer a rider for the team, which Lefevere ran for more than 20 years before stepping down as CEO and now becoming an honorary board member, but he did then play ball.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I don&#8217;t care,&#8221; he told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> after Wednesday&#8217;s race. &#8220;I told him for so many years to do it, and he didn&#8217;t. Now he&#8217;s gone from us, and he&#8217;s going to do it.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;That is, if it&#8217;s true because it is still the first of April \u2013 maybe it&#8217;s a fish. But, of course, it would be good for cycling; he&#8217;s the best rider of Belgium, you don&#8217;t have doubts about it.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Red Bull did respond to their secretary as journalists swarmed the team bus at the finish, having denied Evenepoel&#8217;s participation ever since it was rumoured in December and refused to comment on the rumours on Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Sports director and former Belgian national coach Sven Vanthourenhout represented the team&#8217;s views, having been part of Evenepoel&#8217;s secret recon on December 27, but he remained coy when asked directly why it was kept from the public.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I can&#8217;t really say much about that. It has now indeed been communicated that he&#8217;s riding the race,&#8221; he said to <em>Sporza<\/em>, before putting to bed any suggestion of it still being an April Fool&#8217;s joke.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;We&#8217;ve always said that if we could add someone like Remco, it would only be a plus. And yes, that decision has now been confirmed. So on Sunday, we&#8217;ll indeed be at the start with Remco Evenepoel.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;He&#8217;d only start if he was there for a top result&#8217; \u2013 Wout van Aert welcomes Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s participation in Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I would be surprised if he never rode the Tour of Flanders&#8217; &#8211; Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s choice to skip Ronde in 2026 could well change in future, team management say<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Remco Evenepoel will ride the Tour of Flanders in shock debut<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I&#8217;m definitely not going to comment on [why it was denied]. I think the ambition, or let&#8217;s say the curiosity, for Remco to be part of the Flemish spring classics has always been there. But I mainly focused on the process leading into the spring.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Gianni Vermeersch told the Belgian broadcaster after the race that Evenepoel had been the biggest driver behind the project to start at Flanders, saying, &#8220;Remco really wanted to ride, but I think the team wanted to wait a bit longer. It happened at the last minute because \u2013 as far as I know \u2013 Remco kept nagging until they let him drive.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Vanthourenhout confirmed some truth to this, stating how the team&#8217;s top performance at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, where they were among the very strongest outfits and finished second through Tim van Dijke, had played a key role in confirming his participation.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;As I said, I think\u2026 Remco saw what we did during the opening weekend. And let&#8217;s say that definitely triggered something in him,&#8221; said the DS.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;Even if it had already been on his mind earlier to start on Sunday, apparently it had been. Let&#8217;s just say it certainly helped when he saw the team in action in recent weeks.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Whether or not Evenepoel can compete with the likes of defending champion Tadej Poga\u010dar, or three-time winner Mathieu van der Poel, is a different question, but Lefevere had confidence in the rider he managed from his rapid junior breakthrough to a Grand Tour win and two Monument successes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;He won&#8217;t be inferior to Van der Poel, Pogacar, or Van Aert. Winning is, of course, not easy. Besides, if you are good, the fact that he has no experience in the Tour of Flanders yet plays no role,&#8221; he told Het Laatste Nieuws.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;With Gianni Vermeersch, he has a \u2013 not meant in a bad way \u2013 rascal by his side. Someone who is always there and someone who races smartly. Evenepoel could certainly use someone like that.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Vanthourenhout was again more cautious in laying down any large expectations before he disappeared onto the team bus and away from the microphones that had surrounded him in Waregem.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;Oh, that&#8217;s something I definitely won&#8217;t say,&#8221; he said, to the question of whether winning at the first attempt was Evenepoel&#8217;s aim.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I think we should see this as a kind of exploration. Even though we all know the ambition and eagerness of someone like Remco. But I think we have to be careful with that, and as a team we see it more as a discovery.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><em><strong>Get unlimited access to our unrivalled 2026 Spring Classics coverage with a Cyclingnews subscription. We&#8217;ll bring you breaking news, reports, and analysis from some of the biggest races on the calendar, including Milan-San Remo, Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders. <\/strong><\/em><u><em><strong>Find out more.<\/strong><\/em><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">James Moultrie<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">News Writer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>James Moultrie is a gold-standard NCTJ journalist who joined\u00a0Cyclingnews\u00a0as a News Writer in 2023 after originally contributing as a freelancer for eight months, during which time he also wrote for Eurosport, Rouleur and Cycling Weekly. Prior to joining the team he reported on races such as Paris-Roubaix and the Giro d\u2019Italia Donne for Eurosport and has interviewed some of the sport\u2019s top riders in Chlo\u00e9 Dygert, Lizzie Deignan and Wout van Aert. Outside of cycling, he spends the majority of his time watching other sports \u2013 rugby, football, cricket, and American Football to name a few.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Why Remco Evenepoel is right to make his Tour of Flanders debut now, and how he could challenge Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe have the makings of a great Tour of Flanders team, but is Remco Evenepoel the missing piece for taking on Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;They can have more money but you can&#8217;t buy the Tour&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere rates Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s chances of Tour de France success at Red Bull<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;He&#8217;d only start if he was there for a top result&#8217; \u2013 Wout van Aert welcomes Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s participation in Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I would be surprised if he never rode the Tour of Flanders&#8217; &#8211; Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s choice to skip Ronde in 2026 could well change in future, team management say<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Remco Evenepoel will ride the Tour of Flanders in shock debut<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Racing<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I just don&#8217;t feel the best&#8217; \u2013 Lingering illness continues to disrupt Elisa Longo Borghini with time running out to recover fully for Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Mads Pedersen definitely on the up but his sprint is  &#8216;the part missing from the injury&#8217; ahead of Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;For me it was perfect&#8217; \u2013 Marlen Reusser profits from Demi Vollering breakaway and post-injury strength to grab Dwars door Vlaanderen victory<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I have mixed feelings&#8217; &#8211; Late-race gamble falls short for Demi Vollering at Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Dwars door Vlaanderen Women: Marlen Reusser edges out Demi Vollering in thrilling photo-finish sprint to claim victory<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;d have been nicer if the finish was 150 metres earlier&#8217; \u2013 Wout van Aert rues heartbreaking near miss in Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I was wrapped into a thorn field and they couldn&#8217;t find me&#8217; \u2013 Marlen Reusser recounts her experience of being lost for an hour after a crash, as she advocates for GPS trackers<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I just don&#8217;t feel the best&#8217; \u2013 Lingering illness continues to disrupt Elisa Longo Borghini with time running out to recover fully for Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Sticky situation for Filippo Ganna resolved with 200 CHF fine after taking victory at Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Mads Pedersen definitely on the up but his sprint is  &#8216;the part missing from the injury&#8217; ahead of Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;For me it was perfect&#8217; \u2013 Marlen Reusser profits from Demi Vollering breakaway and post-injury strength to grab Dwars door Vlaanderen victory<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I have mixed feelings&#8217; &#8211; Late-race gamble falls short for Demi Vollering at Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;I was wrapped into a thorn field and they couldn&#8217;t find me&#8217; \u2013 Marlen Reusser recounts her experience of being lost for an hour after a crash, as she advocates for GPS trackers<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Action camera jargon buster: What do all the specs and complex terminology mean?<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Sticky situation for Filippo Ganna resolved with 200 CHF fine after taking victory at Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;I just don&#8217;t feel the best&#8217; \u2013 Lingering illness continues to disrupt Elisa Longo Borghini with time running out to recover fully for Tour of Flanders<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Mads Pedersen definitely on the up but his sprint is  &#8216;the part missing from the injury&#8217; ahead of Tour of Flanders<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTour of Flanders\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;I told him for so many years to do it, and he didn&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere reacts to Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s Tour of Flanders debut, having failed to convince him at Soudal-QuickStep<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nNews<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJames Moultrie <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-01T17:39:56Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n1 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Former team boss says star Belgian starting De Ronde is good for cycling, as Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe stay cautious when explaining secrecy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><figcaption class=\"mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Remco Evenepoel<\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"!m-0\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 sm:ml-1.5 font-base text-xs\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div role=\"dialog\" class=\"hidden fixed inset-0 z-[999999999999999999] bg-[#33333370] flex items-center justify-center p-6 newsletter-modal\" data-batch-endpoint=\"https:\/\/newsletter-subscribe.futureplc.com\/v2\/submission\/submit_batch\" data-batch-source=\"302\" data-component-name=\"Newsletter:Modal\">\n<div class=\"bg-neutral-100 rounded-xl shadow-xl w-full lg:w-2\/3 xl:w-1\/2 p-6 relative max-h-[95vh] overflow-y-auto\">\n<div id=\"newsletter-capture-modal\">\n<div class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0 bg-inherit font-ui-heading\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base font-article-copy\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<div data-component-name=\"Newsletter:NewsletterForm\">\n<hr class=\"modal_hr mt-3 mb-4 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"modal_footer block text-left opacity-80 text-[.8em] leading-[1.3em] mt-2 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline font-article-copy\">\nBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-b9bdd59d-6943-4959-9f71-fcb47c8c63a4\">While former team boss Patrick Lefevere said Remco Evenepoel finally making his Tour of Flanders is good for cycling, he couldn&#8217;t help but note how it was something he annoyingly failed to convince the Belgian star to do before he left Soudal-QuickStep for Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe.<\/p>\n<p>The German team created mass drama on Wednesday as it was confirmed that rumours swirling on Tuesday night were no April Fools joke and that Evenepoel would indeed take the start in Antwerp on Sunday.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b9bdd59d-6943-4959-9f71-fcb47c8c63a4-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Drawing reactions aplenty from the whole peloton, the Red Bull team bus was one of the busiest places after Wednesday&#8217;s race, even with their top finisher being Laurence Pithie in fifth, but also wandering around the VIP area was Lefevere.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Why Remco Evenepoel is right to make his Tour of Flanders debut now, and how he could challenge Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe have the makings of a great Tour of Flanders team, but is Remco Evenepoel the missing piece for taking on Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;They can have more money but you can&#8217;t buy the Tour&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere rates Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s chances of Tour de France success at Red Bull<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Initially, he didn&#8217;t want to speak about Evenepoel as he is no longer a rider for the team, which Lefevere ran for more than 20 years before stepping down as CEO and now becoming an honorary board member, but he did then play ball.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I don&#8217;t care,&#8221; he told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> after Wednesday&#8217;s race. &#8220;I told him for so many years to do it, and he didn&#8217;t. Now he&#8217;s gone from us, and he&#8217;s going to do it.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;That is, if it&#8217;s true because it is still the first of April \u2013 maybe it&#8217;s a fish. But, of course, it would be good for cycling; he&#8217;s the best rider of Belgium, you don&#8217;t have doubts about it.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Red Bull did respond to their secretary as journalists swarmed the team bus at the finish, having denied Evenepoel&#8217;s participation ever since it was rumoured in December and refused to comment on the rumours on Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Sports director and former Belgian national coach Sven Vanthourenhout represented the team&#8217;s views, having been part of Evenepoel&#8217;s secret recon on December 27, but he remained coy when asked directly why it was kept from the public.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I can&#8217;t really say much about that. It has now indeed been communicated that he&#8217;s riding the race,&#8221; he said to <em>Sporza<\/em>, before putting to bed any suggestion of it still being an April Fool&#8217;s joke.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;We&#8217;ve always said that if we could add someone like Remco, it would only be a plus. And yes, that decision has now been confirmed. So on Sunday, we&#8217;ll indeed be at the start with Remco Evenepoel.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;He&#8217;d only start if he was there for a top result&#8217; \u2013 Wout van Aert welcomes Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s participation in Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I would be surprised if he never rode the Tour of Flanders&#8217; &#8211; Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s choice to skip Ronde in 2026 could well change in future, team management say<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Remco Evenepoel will ride the Tour of Flanders in shock debut<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I&#8217;m definitely not going to comment on [why it was denied]. I think the ambition, or let&#8217;s say the curiosity, for Remco to be part of the Flemish spring classics has always been there. But I mainly focused on the process leading into the spring.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Gianni Vermeersch told the Belgian broadcaster after the race that Evenepoel had been the biggest driver behind the project to start at Flanders, saying, &#8220;Remco really wanted to ride, but I think the team wanted to wait a bit longer. It happened at the last minute because \u2013 as far as I know \u2013 Remco kept nagging until they let him drive.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Vanthourenhout confirmed some truth to this, stating how the team&#8217;s top performance at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, where they were among the very strongest outfits and finished second through Tim van Dijke, had played a key role in confirming his participation.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;As I said, I think\u2026 Remco saw what we did during the opening weekend. And let&#8217;s say that definitely triggered something in him,&#8221; said the DS.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;Even if it had already been on his mind earlier to start on Sunday, apparently it had been. Let&#8217;s just say it certainly helped when he saw the team in action in recent weeks.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Whether or not Evenepoel can compete with the likes of defending champion Tadej Poga\u010dar, or three-time winner Mathieu van der Poel, is a different question, but Lefevere had confidence in the rider he managed from his rapid junior breakthrough to a Grand Tour win and two Monument successes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;He won&#8217;t be inferior to Van der Poel, Pogacar, or Van Aert. Winning is, of course, not easy. Besides, if you are good, the fact that he has no experience in the Tour of Flanders yet plays no role,&#8221; he told Het Laatste Nieuws.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;With Gianni Vermeersch, he has a \u2013 not meant in a bad way \u2013 rascal by his side. Someone who is always there and someone who races smartly. Evenepoel could certainly use someone like that.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Vanthourenhout was again more cautious in laying down any large expectations before he disappeared onto the team bus and away from the microphones that had surrounded him in Waregem.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;Oh, that&#8217;s something I definitely won&#8217;t say,&#8221; he said, to the question of whether winning at the first attempt was Evenepoel&#8217;s aim.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I think we should see this as a kind of exploration. Even though we all know the ambition and eagerness of someone like Remco. But I think we have to be careful with that, and as a team we see it more as a discovery.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><em><strong>Get unlimited access to our unrivalled 2026 Spring Classics coverage with a Cyclingnews subscription. We&#8217;ll bring you breaking news, reports, and analysis from some of the biggest races on the calendar, including Milan-San Remo, Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders. <\/strong><\/em><u><em><strong>Find out more.<\/strong><\/em><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">James Moultrie<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">News Writer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>James Moultrie is a gold-standard NCTJ journalist who joined\u00a0Cyclingnews\u00a0as a News Writer in 2023 after originally contributing as a freelancer for eight months, during which time he also wrote for Eurosport, Rouleur and Cycling Weekly. Prior to joining the team he reported on races such as Paris-Roubaix and the Giro d\u2019Italia Donne for Eurosport and has interviewed some of the sport\u2019s top riders in Chlo\u00e9 Dygert, Lizzie Deignan and Wout van Aert. Outside of cycling, he spends the majority of his time watching other sports \u2013 rugby, football, cricket, and American Football to name a few.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Why Remco Evenepoel is right to make his Tour of Flanders debut now, and how he could challenge Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe have the makings of a great Tour of Flanders team, but is Remco Evenepoel the missing piece for taking on Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;They can have more money but you can&#8217;t buy the Tour&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere rates Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s chances of Tour de France success at Red Bull<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;He&#8217;d only start if he was there for a top result&#8217; \u2013 Wout van Aert welcomes Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s participation in Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I would be surprised if he never rode the Tour of Flanders&#8217; &#8211; Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s choice to skip Ronde in 2026 could well change in future, team management say<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Remco Evenepoel will ride the Tour of Flanders in shock debut<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Racing<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I just don&#8217;t feel the best&#8217; \u2013 Lingering illness continues to disrupt Elisa Longo Borghini with time running out to recover fully for Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Mads Pedersen definitely on the up but his sprint is  &#8216;the part missing from the injury&#8217; ahead of Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;For me it was perfect&#8217; \u2013 Marlen Reusser profits from Demi Vollering breakaway and post-injury strength to grab Dwars door Vlaanderen victory<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I have mixed feelings&#8217; &#8211; Late-race gamble falls short for Demi Vollering at Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/63L3htuUa26CQRAaaaUESB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Dwars door Vlaanderen Women: Marlen Reusser edges out Demi Vollering in thrilling photo-finish sprint to claim victory<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/43r7CCJvkR4CRMPwgc3o9C-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;d have been nicer if the finish was 150 metres earlier&#8217; \u2013 Wout van Aert rues heartbreaking near miss in Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I was wrapped into a thorn field and they couldn&#8217;t find me&#8217; \u2013 Marlen Reusser recounts her experience of being lost for an hour after a crash, as she advocates for GPS trackers<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ik3zkfcMqVF82P3Tgv3UoJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I just don&#8217;t feel the best&#8217; \u2013 Lingering illness continues to disrupt Elisa Longo Borghini with time running out to recover fully for Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWfeX2yNpSsweaciMeFruR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Sticky situation for Filippo Ganna resolved with 200 CHF fine after taking victory at Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rvJ5YSwVaD8FcdVZnz3TcD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Mads Pedersen definitely on the up but his sprint is  &#8216;the part missing from the injury&#8217; ahead of Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DUyVFyZQHFfw4JrZh8xkQL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;For me it was perfect&#8217; \u2013 Marlen Reusser profits from Demi Vollering breakaway and post-injury strength to grab Dwars door Vlaanderen victory<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kkBVa5xY7v7FGodaUXSuoc-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I have mixed feelings&#8217; &#8211; Late-race gamble falls short for Demi Vollering at Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cmut5khmG6QR5j4KtZaZSD.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;I was wrapped into a thorn field and they couldn&#8217;t find me&#8217; \u2013 Marlen Reusser recounts her experience of being lost for an hour after a crash, as she advocates for GPS trackers<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Action camera jargon buster: What do all the specs and complex terminology mean?<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Sticky situation for Filippo Ganna resolved with 200 CHF fine after taking victory at Dwars door Vlaanderen<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;I just don&#8217;t feel the best&#8217; \u2013 Lingering illness continues to disrupt Elisa Longo Borghini with time running out to recover fully for Tour of Flanders<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Mads Pedersen definitely on the up but his sprint is  &#8216;the part missing from the injury&#8217; ahead of Tour of Flanders<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTour of Flanders\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;I told him for so many years to do it, and he didn&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere reacts to Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s Tour of Flanders debut, having failed to convince him at Soudal-QuickStep<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nNews<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJames Moultrie <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-01T17:39:56Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n1 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Former team boss says star Belgian starting De Ronde is good for cycling, as Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe stay cautious when explaining secrecy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"!m-0\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 sm:ml-1.5 font-base text-xs\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div role=\"dialog\" class=\"hidden fixed inset-0 z-[999999999999999999] bg-[#33333370] flex items-center justify-center p-6 newsletter-modal\" data-batch-endpoint=\"https:\/\/newsletter-subscribe.futureplc.com\/v2\/submission\/submit_batch\" data-batch-source=\"302\" data-component-name=\"Newsletter:Modal\">\n<div class=\"bg-neutral-100 rounded-xl shadow-xl w-full lg:w-2\/3 xl:w-1\/2 p-6 relative max-h-[95vh] overflow-y-auto\">\n<div id=\"newsletter-capture-modal\">\n<div class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0 bg-inherit font-ui-heading\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base font-article-copy\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<div data-component-name=\"Newsletter:NewsletterForm\">\n<hr class=\"modal_hr mt-3 mb-4 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"modal_footer block text-left opacity-80 text-[.8em] leading-[1.3em] mt-2 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline font-article-copy\">\nBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-b9bdd59d-6943-4959-9f71-fcb47c8c63a4\">While former team boss Patrick Lefevere said Remco Evenepoel finally making his Tour of Flanders is good for cycling, he couldn&#8217;t help but note how it was something he annoyingly failed to convince the Belgian star to do before he left Soudal-QuickStep for Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe.<\/p>\n<p>The German team created mass drama on Wednesday as it was confirmed that rumours swirling on Tuesday night were no April Fools joke and that Evenepoel would indeed take the start in Antwerp on Sunday.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b9bdd59d-6943-4959-9f71-fcb47c8c63a4-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Drawing reactions aplenty from the whole peloton, the Red Bull team bus was one of the busiest places after Wednesday&#8217;s race, even with their top finisher being Laurence Pithie in fifth, but also wandering around the VIP area was Lefevere.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bHLxGrWU2fCg4Mw43wZRES-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Why Remco Evenepoel is right to make his Tour of Flanders debut now, and how he could challenge Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5GZmJZf8qmx8Kyc3E4yqyX-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe have the makings of a great Tour of Flanders team, but is Remco Evenepoel the missing piece for taking on Poga\u010dar and Van der Poel?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eAaedrButdMLZPZR2kXFbM-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;They can have more money but you can&#8217;t buy the Tour&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere rates Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s chances of Tour de France success at Red Bull<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Initially, he didn&#8217;t want to speak about Evenepoel as he is no longer a rider for the team, which Lefevere ran for more than 20 years before stepping down as CEO and now becoming an honorary board member, but he did then play ball.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I don&#8217;t care,&#8221; he told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> after Wednesday&#8217;s race. &#8220;I told him for so many years to do it, and he didn&#8217;t. Now he&#8217;s gone from us, and he&#8217;s going to do it.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;That is, if it&#8217;s true because it is still the first of April \u2013 maybe it&#8217;s a fish. But, of course, it would be good for cycling; he&#8217;s the best rider of Belgium, you don&#8217;t have doubts about it.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Red Bull did respond to their secretary as journalists swarmed the team bus at the finish, having denied Evenepoel&#8217;s participation ever since it was rumoured in December and refused to comment on the rumours on Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-XHQntM7neyhBt3neo4xCXe slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Sports director and former Belgian national coach Sven Vanthourenhout represented the team&#8217;s views, having been part of Evenepoel&#8217;s secret recon on December 27, but he remained coy when asked directly why it was kept from the public.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I can&#8217;t really say much about that. It has now indeed been communicated that he&#8217;s riding the race,&#8221; he said to <em>Sporza<\/em>, before putting to bed any suggestion of it still being an April Fool&#8217;s joke.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;We&#8217;ve always said that if we could add someone like Remco, it would only be a plus. And yes, that decision has now been confirmed. So on Sunday, we&#8217;ll indeed be at the start with Remco Evenepoel.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aWvbNafWKFhdvNXYcMJPmh-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;He&#8217;d only start if he was there for a top result&#8217; \u2013 Wout van Aert welcomes Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s participation in Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HSjXL58Hwiy6QBTVDBGbnP-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I would be surprised if he never rode the Tour of Flanders&#8217; &#8211; Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s choice to skip Ronde in 2026 could well change in future, team management say<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kdyjvfBtQGcrdvvymtNZJd-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Remco Evenepoel will ride the Tour of Flanders in shock debut<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I&#8217;m definitely not going to comment on [why it was denied]. I think the ambition, or let&#8217;s say the curiosity, for Remco to be part of the Flemish spring classics has always been there. But I mainly focused on the process leading into the spring.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Gianni Vermeersch told the Belgian broadcaster after the race that Evenepoel had been the biggest driver behind the project to start at Flanders, saying, &#8220;Remco really wanted to ride, but I think the team wanted to wait a bit longer. It happened at the last minute because \u2013 as far as I know \u2013 Remco kept nagging until they let him drive.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Vanthourenhout confirmed some truth to this, stating how the team&#8217;s top performance at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, where they were among the very strongest outfits and finished second through Tim van Dijke, had played a key role in confirming his participation.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;As I said, I think\u2026 Remco saw what we did during the opening weekend. And let&#8217;s say that definitely triggered something in him,&#8221; said the DS.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;Even if it had already been on his mind earlier to start on Sunday, apparently it had been. Let&#8217;s just say it certainly helped when he saw the team in action in recent weeks.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Whether or not Evenepoel can compete with the likes of defending champion Tadej Poga\u010dar, or three-time winner Mathieu van der Poel, is a different question, but Lefevere had confidence in the rider he managed from his rapid junior breakthrough to a Grand Tour win and two Monument successes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;He won&#8217;t be inferior to Van der Poel, Pogacar, or Van Aert. Winning is, of course, not easy. Besides, if you are good, the fact that he has no experience in the Tour of Flanders yet plays no role,&#8221; he told Het Laatste Nieuws.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;With Gianni Vermeersch, he has a \u2013 not meant in a bad way \u2013 rascal by his side. Someone who is always there and someone who races smartly. Evenepoel could certainly use someone like that.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Vanthourenhout was again more cautious in laying down any large expectations before he disappeared onto the team bus and away from the microphones that had surrounded him in Waregem.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;Oh, that&#8217;s something I definitely won&#8217;t say,&#8221; he said, to the question of whether winning at the first attempt was Evenepoel&#8217;s aim.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I think we should see this as a kind of exploration. Even though we all know the ambition and eagerness of someone like Remco. But I think we have to be careful with that, and as a team we see it more as a discovery.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><em><strong>Get unlimited access to our unrivalled 2026 Spring Classics coverage with a Cyclingnews subscription. We&#8217;ll bring you breaking news, reports, and analysis from some of the biggest races on the calendar, including Milan-San Remo, Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders. <\/strong><\/em><u><em><strong>Find out more.<\/strong><\/em><\/u><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/i-told-him-for-so-many-years-to-do-it-and-he-didnt-patrick-lefevere-reacts-to-remco-evenepoels-tour-of-flanders-debut-having-failed-to-convince-him-at-soudal-quickstep\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zce5G3DYsHjGfsRMTdjQpF-1024-80.jpg&#8221;] Pro Cycling Racing Road Tour of Flanders &#8216;I told him for so many years to do it, and he didn&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Patrick Lefevere reacts to Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s Tour of Flanders debut, having failed to convince him at Soudal-QuickStep News By James Moultrie published 1 April 2026 Former team boss says star Belgian [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-1861044","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1861044","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1861044"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1861044\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1861044"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1861044"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1861044"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}