INEOS and Decathlon on hunt for services of Remco Evenepoel's top domestique

Future of Remco Evenepoel will be a big topic next year when his current contract is running out. But the teams interested in the Belgian's services are already in search of every possible tool that could put them on the double Olympic champion's better side. One way is by building a support team that would fit Evenepoel's taste.

One such rider is currently on the market. Ilan Van Wilder is a man who can ride for his own result at WorldTour level, as much is evident from his 4th overall at UAE Tour and Tour de Romandie last year. But for a vast part of the season, he is bound to Remco Evenepoel as his most loyal lieutenant in the hardest mountain stages.

With such reputation, it's no wonder that top WT formations are competing for Van Wilder's services in upcoming years. Cycling journalist and transfers expert Daniel Benson informs that INEOS Grenadiers and Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale are in the pursuit of Van Wilder's attention while his current team Soudal - Quick-Step also expressed an interest to renew with the 24-year-old Belgian who has been with the team since late 2021.

Apparently, Van Wilder and the management of Wolfpack are on good terms and so the negotiations of renewal may proceed smoothly, if the offer sits right with the versatile climber. However the interest from these big teams clearly indicates both the caliber and potential of Van Wilder.

Whatever his decision, it will be a clear indicator of the direction his career, and that of Evenepoel, are about to take. Van Wilder could seek more opportunities to ride as a leader in a different team, while him leaving would suggest Soudal - Quick-Step without Patrick Lefevere may not have the pulls to convince its stars to continue with the project.