Belgium reveal Remco Evenepoel’s European Championships squad with Van Gils and Benoot in support

Belgium have unveiled their line-up for the upcoming European Championships in the Drôme-Ardèche, with Remco Evenepoel the undisputed leader. The 25-year-old will once again attempt the rare double of time trial and road race at a major championship, underlining both his versatility and the Belgian federation’s faith in his ability to deliver across multiple fronts.

Evenepoel comes into the event as a former elite road world champion (2022) and the reigning, two-time time-trial world champion (2023, 2024). Those credentials make him one of the stand-out names of the entire Championships, and Belgium’s selection is clearly built to give him the best possible shot at success. He will ride the individual time trial alongside Alec Segaert, who continues his rise after taking the European under-23 crown against the clock last year.

On the road, Belgium’s squad has been designed to protect Evenepoel deep into the selective terrain of the Drôme-Ardèche, while also leaving room for tactical flexibility.

Maxim Van Gils and Tiesj Benoot are named as secondary leaders, giving Belgium a genuine climbing option and a proven championship racer who can thrive in attritional conditions. Both riders provide valuable insurance should circumstances dictate a change of plan, or should Evenepoel find himself heavily marked in the decisive phases.

Alongside them, Ilan Van Wilder, Louis Vervaeke, Junior Lecerf, Steff Cras and Xandro Meurisse complete the selection. This group represents a mix of loyal domestiques and opportunists, riders capable of controlling breakaways, setting tempo on the climbs, or forcing rival nations into uncomfortable positions. Several of them are long-time allies of Evenepoel at Soudal - Quick-Step, ensuring cohesion and familiarity in the Belgian camp.

The squad suggests Belgium will ride a dual-purpose race: first and foremost, to deliver Evenepoel into the finale on the hilly terrain where he excels, but also to keep cards in play should the race dynamics open up. With Van Gils and Benoot waiting in reserve, Belgium retain the ability to attack or defend in multiple scenarios — a luxury few nations can boast.

Remco Evenepoel
Maxim Van Gils
Tiesj Benoot
Ilan Van Wilder
Louis Vervaeke
William Junior Lecerf
Steff Cras
Xandro Meurisse

Remco Evenepoel
Alec Segaert