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.
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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.”
Fin MajorCycling Journalist
Fin Major is a UK-based writer at CyclingUpToDate and has been part of the team since 2024. He is the site’s main writer for FAQs and evergreen explainers and has written around 2,000 pieces for the platform. Alongside this work, he focuses on in-depth analysis and covers the biggest races on the calendar, including the Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia, and La Vuelta a España, providing clear context around performance trends, tactics, and key storylines.
In his reporting, Fin uses reputable data sources such as ProCyclingStats for results, statistics, and historical context. He places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. Outside of writing, Fin is an active cyclist, which supports his practical understanding of the sport and its demands.
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