"I will certainly not be hopelessly alone" - Yves Lampaert ready to lead Soudal - Quick-Step in the classics without Julian Alaphilippe

Wielerflits recently caught up with Yves Lampaert as he prepares for the 2025 season. With Kasper Asgreen and Julian Alaphilippe leaving Soudal – Quick-Step, the Belgian rider is set to take on greater responsibility in the classics.

For Lampaert, their departures could also mean less internal competition for leadership roles. “That was always okay. I will miss those guys. They were not only super good guys on the bike, but also off the bike.”

The 33-year-old has a strong pedigree in the cobbled classics, having won Dwars door Vlaanderen in both 2017 and 2018. Despite his new leadership role, he won’t be entirely alone in major races.

“Tim Merlier will also be there a few times. Think of a Gent-Wevelgem or Paris-Roubaix, for example. So I will certainly not be hopelessly alone.” His confidence remains high as he looks ahead to key one-day races.

Lampaert is also mindful of how rival teams will shape race dynamics. "It mainly depends on how the other teams will take control of the race. It remains to be seen whether UAE Emirates-XRG will take control of a race like E3 Saxo Classic right from the start or whether they will first look at it from behind."

He specifically referenced Tadej Pogacar’s return to Flemish races, which could shake up the usual tactical approaches. The Slovenian’s presence will likely influence how aggressive teams are willing to be early on.

Another major change for Soudal – Quick-Step heading into 2025 is Patrick Lefevere stepping down as CEO. "I've always had respect for our boss and we'll definitely miss him. He could sometimes put you in your place, but it was always with a lot of love and with the best intentions."

Lampaert will hope to make an impressive start to 2025, as the team adapt to the post Lefevere era.