“I feel like it’s taken me too long to get here” - Remco Evenepoel finally set for Tour of Flanders debut

Remco Evenepoel’s debut at the Tour of Flanders is one of the major storylines of the Belgian classic. At 26 years old, the Olympic champion faces the cobbles of the Flemish Monument for the first time, where his main rivals will be Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel. At the start, Evenepoel shared his feelings, childhood memories and ambitions with Cycling Pro Net ahead of one of the most demanding challenges of his career.

“It’s incredible. Ever since I was a very young child, I have always watched the race. I lived very close to the Bosberg, which used to be the finish in previous editions. I think it’s something that has always been inside me, and to finally be here at the start is incredible. I feel like it’s taken me too long to get here.”

On why he had not previously ridden the Tour of Flanders, he explained: “I think it has been decisions within the team and also different objectives in other seasons. But now I think the time is right.”

Evenepoel also recalled a past reflection about racing on cobbles: “In 2022, after Brabantse Pijl, when I was riding over the cobbled sections, I said that the riders who race there are crazy. And now I’m going to be one of them in one of the most famous one-day races in the world.”

As for his expectations on debut, the Belgian was cautious: “It’s going to be a big discovery for me to race on these roads. I know them from training, but racing is completely different. We’ll see how it goes, but I think I’m prepared. I’ve done enough recon rides and I’ve watched the race many times, seeing Mathieu, Wout and Tadej race here. I think I’m ready for whatever comes.”

On strategy, Evenepoel was clear about the importance of energy conservation and positioning: “We have to reach the final as economically as possible, which is difficult in this race. We should enter the decisive section with as many teammates as possible. From the second time up the Kwaremont, it will all depend on the legs.”

The Belgian also warned about race conditions: “With the wind, the finale can start very early and be very long. As soon as we enter the cobbles, we have to be fully focused and ready for every sector. We know what we have to do.”

Finally, Evenepoel did not hesitate when asked about his chances of winning on his Flanders debut: “Yes.”