"I am too young to devote myself fully to a career as a servant" - Ilan van Wilder not interested in being Evenepoel domestique at La Vuelta

Ilan van Wilder was part of Soudal - Quick-Step's Giro d'Italia team earlier this year, tasked with helping to ensure Remco Evenepoel a Maglia Rosa. Ultimately, that wasn't to be and no it seems he won't be helping his fellow Belgian at the Vuelta a Espana.

“I hear that from everyone now: we expected you in the Vuelta. But everyone forgets that I have already ridden the Giro d'Italia," the talented 23-year-old told Het Nieuwsbald. "That was only my second Grand Tour ever and I can assure you that it was a very tough one."

As mentioned, van Wilder is a highly talented rider himself. He feels being used solely as a luxury domestique for Remco Evenepoel is a waste of his talents and stunting any potential future growth.

“Right now I'm not mentally capable of driving myself off the hook again twenty-one days in a row. But the Vuelta has just never been on my program. The team and my trainer Koen Pelgrim have decided it this way," he explains. "I am 23 years old and have to take it step by step. It's not meant to burn me out or squeeze me out. Two grand tours in one year, that's something for next year or in two years. I can imagine that Remco thinks it's a pity."

"I am too young to devote myself fully to a career as a servant now. I don't think it's arrogant to say that," van Wilder continues. "Ultimately, as a young rider you always have the ambition to go for your own chance. If I later notice that I function better in a role as a helper, then I will certainly be willing to give up those personal ambitions. But at twenty-three, that's just not the case yet."