Ilan van Wilder has sights set high - "I have big ambitions"

Just 22 years old, Ilan van Wilder impressed in helping Remco Evenepoel win the first Grand Tour of his career at the 2022 Vuelta a Espana a few months ago. Now he's been discussing his plans for the future, admitting "I have big ambitions."

Although his calendar for 2023 is not yet fully decided, van Wilder spoke to Rouleur about a rough idea of how his season may shape up. "I will certainly have my opportunities. The team promised me this," the Belgian explained. "Honestly, we haven't talked about my program yet. But generally the plan is that I'll get my chances in week-long races and then go on a Grand Tour. I'll probably be with Remco again to be his last man uphill, or maybe go on a Grand Tour with more freedom. This is also possible."

One thing that definitely comes across in van Wilder's interview is the fact that he is determined to do everything in his power to ensure he is as successful as possible. “Nobody says I'll be a luxury wingman for the rest of my career neither me nor the team. I for one have big ambitions. I can still grow a lot. I think I'm too talented for this role."

“First I want to try to be a leader in the general classification and see how it goes," he says. " If I try and it's not possible, when I'm older I can become a support rider. I'd be happy to do it, but first I want to follow my ambitions."