Evenepoel rumours "storm in a teacup" Lefevere says in weekly column

Patrick Lefevere was clear on how Remco Evenepoel is not going to leave the team for INEOS Grenadiers, as recent rumours led a select few to believe. In his weekly Het Nieuwsblad column, he talked about the situation.

“The alleged interest of Ineos in Remco Evenepoel? A storm in a teacup. Or a fart in a bottle, if you will," he said. "It's unbelievable how much ink has been spilled over the past few days, but the bottom line is that Remco rides for Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl and will continue to do so for years to come."

A report from Velonews this week revealed that following his win at the World Championships, INEOS owner Jim Ratcliffe texted Lefevere asking if he was interested in selling the Belgium. Albeit likely in a humorous tone, it caught the attention of many, but the manager of Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl Team denied any true interest.  

“Patrick Evenepoel" (Remco's father and agent) "played open hand: there is interest, in the past there has also been talk without obligation, but a transfer is not an issue. Discussion closed. In addition, we talked about the team, now and in the future. I explained again that there is no room for reinforcements before 2023, but that in 2024 I have fifteen riders who are at the end of their contract," he said, regarding what was discussed in a recent dinner. 

“Last week was not a recommendation to be very open to the press. The conclusion of the story is that this week has made it clear that from now on we will have to hang around Remco with the fly swatter," he added.

"To keep all the dung flies and vultures away from him. Anyone who thinks of joining the table or foaming without paying will be worth the effort" Lefevere concluded. Evenepoel has a contract standing until 2026 and for the time being there is no indication that a transfer is to happen.