How good is Remco Evenepoel? "Impossible to put into words", Greg van Avermaet shoots

Remco Evenepoel has been touted as it for several years, but following a Grand Tour win and World Title in quick succession, he's perhaps became Belgium's most popular rider and that is saying a lot taking into comparison the riders he competes with.

In an interview with Het Nieuwsblad, Greg van Avermaet talked of "...of one that is only born every so often," referring to Evenepoel. "He has performed on a lot of race, but I especially thought the World Championship was incredible. Wow, two minutes, and riding away from the whole pack. Really, I can't get my head around that," Van Avermaet said. 

The two have clashed in the early years of Evenepoel's career, but the Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl Team rider has since taken off, focusing on stage-races, time-trials and some one-day races that are out of the league for van Avermaet. The 22-year old has taken several high-level wins this year in a season that could hardly be any better.

Avermaet, as an Olympic champion, Paris-Roubaix - and many other cobbled classics - winner and Tour de France yellow jersey wearer, has been one of the Belgium's stars over the last decade. "I also won some races, but that was trying to finish it in the sprint and trying to do everything right beforehand," he continued.

He has first-hand experience, and talks of a different level when it comes to Evenepoel. "Few people really get away with that. When you're on the road with Evenepoel, you don't recover in the wheel. Riding someone off the wheel on the flat, who can do that?" he questioned.

"He suffers less than anyone else. I have met many riders, including super talents, but Remco is of a different order. Honestly, I thought such a thing was no longer possible. Racing has become so controlled, there is so much team play, and then to make a difference on your own," the veteran continued. 

"Actually, it is impossible to put into words how good he is," van Avermaet concluded. The nation has succeeded this year in the World Championships, and with the presence of other riders such as Wout van Aert and Tim Merlier it is certain to be in a similar position for the World Championships where van Avermaet and Evenepoel may race together again.