“I think Sanremo and the Tour of Flanders are feasible" - Patrick Lefevere predicts busy spring for Remco Evenepoel next year

With that nasty crash at Itzulia Basque Country ruining his Classics campaign this year, Remco Evenepoel now has more desire than ever to star in the spring next year according to his team manager, Patrick Lefevere.

“If you know someone at the level of Mathieu van der Poel, Tadej Pogacar or Wout van Aert, who is available and affordable, I am interested..." the Soudal - Quick-Step boss laughs in conversation with Jose De Cauwer for Sporza, referencing the need for Evenepoel in order for the team to stay competitive in the spring classics. "I think that Remco is ultimately a bit of a Flandrien. He sometimes trains on these roads. I'm sure he wants to ride the Tour of Flanders one day."

Evenepoel is definitely interested in showcasing himself through the entirety of a spring campaign too, texting Lefevere about his desire in the last few weeks. “As everyone knows, I was sick on the day of Paris-Roubaix this year. Problems with my stomach. In any case, in front of my TV, with my lasagna, I start texting with Remco. He sends: 'Patrick, about the past few weeks... Next year will be different, right? I'm going to get involved,'” Lefevere recalls.

"A message on his Remco's, but I think that's the max. In our style of communication we agree," Lefevere continued. "I think Milano-Sanremo and the Tour of Flanders are feasible in his programme. After that, maybe you can add Liege too. The Tour de France is still far away then."