"Cycling has changed" - Tim Wellens confirms he will not ride the Ardennes Classics in 2025

Tim Wellens, the experienced UAE Team Emirates rider, has revealed he will not participate in the Ardennes Classics next year, opting instead to focus on the Flemish races. The 33-year-old Belgian, a two-time stage winner at both the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España, shared his plans in an interview with Het Nieuwsblad.

“We still have to discuss my program in more depth, but it will be a bit of a copy paste of this year. No Ardennes, but a few Flemish classics, and later the Tour de France,” Wellens explained.

Wellens highlighted the evolution of professional cycling and the demands of the Walloon classics as key reasons for his change in focus. “Cycling has changed: I don’t push the watts per kilogram that are now needed to reach the finals of the Walloon classics,” he said.

Instead, he believes the Flemish races align better with his current strengths. “The Flemish classics are somewhat different, shorter efforts, positioning that comes with it. At this stage of my career, the Flemish races suit me much better than the Walloon ones,” he continued.

His newfound enthusiasm for these races marks a significant shift. “My love for the Flemish classics has also grown. In the past, they didn't interest me at all, and I didn't know the roads in Flanders well. But now I'm looking forward to it. Especially because it didn't work out in the Walloon classics.”

In 2025, Wellens will also play a crucial role in supporting teammate Tadej Pogacar, the reigning world champion, during key cobbled races such as the E3 Saxo Classic, Gent-Wevelgem, and the Tour of Flanders. Wellens is eager to dedicate himself to helping Pogacar secure victory.

“I immediately sign up to be in the team with Tadej. And to help him try to win, instead of trying to beat Tadej,” he said. The Belgian veteran acknowledges the challenges involved but embraces his role. “Everyone knows that it’s very difficult. Especially with my abilities. You have to know what you can do and what you can’t do. I’m at a stage in my career now where I’ve discovered that well.”