"I'm still looking forward to his comeback" - Remco Evenepoel's Soudal - Quick-Step teammate looking to capitalise on team leader's injury

Remco Evenepoel’s training injury at the end of 2024 could pave the way for more opportunities for his Soudal–Quick-Step teammate Ilan Van Wilder in the early months of 2025. Speaking to Sporza, Van Wilder shared his thoughts on the season ahead, outlining his ambitions and schedule.

"Everything is going very well," Van Wilder stated as he looked forward to his season debut. His first race will be the Tour of the Algarve, where he aims to start the year strongly. "I want to perform well in Portugal, but I have a few extra weeks for a good build-up. That gives me a little more time and a little more relaxation for a good base."

Van Wilder sees the early races as preparation for bigger goals, explaining his focus on Paris-Nice. "I can use those first kilometers as an incentive to be good in Paris-Nice. There I get the chance to go for a good result. Then the Basque Country and perhaps the Walloon classics follow." He also confirmed his programme leading up to one of cycling’s most prestigious one-day races, saying, "Everything up to and including Liège is more or less fixed."

When discussing the rest of his year, Van Wilder mentioned his likely participation in the Tour de France. "There are a bit more personal chances, but I'm still looking forward to his comeback. Then I can fight with him for a good result."

Reflecting on his past experiences, Van Wilder highlighted his history with Liège-Bastogne-Liège, a race that has shaped his career in several ways. "I have a history with Liège. I broke my jawbone in that massive fall a few years ago and a year later I launched Remco at La Redoute. Hopefully we will be at the start together again."

With his sights set on a strong start to the season and opportunities to lead in key races, Van Wilder is poised to make the most of his early chances while eagerly awaiting Evenepoel’s return.