“Back at the sufferfestival” – Remco Evenepoel & Mathieu van der Poel spotted training together in Calpe

A rare pairing appeared on the roads around Calpe this week, as Remco Evenepoel and Mathieu van der Poel linked up for a training ride during their winter blocks in Spain. The two were photographed riding in a small group that also included Freddy Ovett, Arvid de Kleijn and Luke Verburg.

Ovett shared the image on Instagram Stories, with Evenepoel later reposting it alongside a short caption: “Back at the sufferfestival.” The photo showed the group riding on one of the region’s familiar training routes and hinted at a session far tougher than a casual spin.

Evenepoel’s 2026 race programme remains unconfirmed. Despite speculation surrounding where he will open his season, no official announcement has been made. His winter workload has been closely watched, and a joint session with one of the sport’s biggest riders only adds to interest in his preparations.

Van der Poel, on the other hand, is expected to return to cyclocross over the Christmas period. The exact date has not been announced, but a comeback in Antwerp on 20 December, Koksijde on 21 December, or Hofstade on 22 December is considered the most likely scenario.

Both riders traditionally use Calpe as a base in December, and although winter sightings of professionals in the area are common, two of the sport’s most high-profile names training together is a standout moment.