"It's all about the money" - Evenepoel’s absence from the National Championships sparks controversy

As the National Road Championships approach, the contrast between Belgium and the Netherlands has once again become impossible to ignore. While many of the biggest Dutch stars, particularly in the men's peloton, regularly skip the Dutch championships, Belgium operates under a system that effectively requires its professional riders to line up for the national title race.

Speaking on the In Het Wiel podcast, former Dutch professional Roxane Knetemann admitted she sees value in such a rule, arguing that racing the national championships is also about giving something back to the fans.

"I actually think that's something beautiful. It's a gift that, as one of your country's heroes, you give back to the people. After all, cycling is the people's sport."

Knetemann also explained that the Belgian system is not simply about sporting tradition. According to her, there is a financial incentive behind ensuring the country's biggest names are present.

"I spoke to national coach Serge Pauwels. The mandatory participation has everything to do with the start and finish location of the Belgian Championships, which is sold in Belgium."

She continued. "The federation earns money from it because all the top riders are part of the package. That's actually very smart. That's why the mandatory participation exists in Belgium, also as a way of giving something back to your own country. However, it's easy enough to get around with a doctor's certificate saying you're ill."

The discussion has intensified because Remco Evenepoel is not expected to compete in this year's Belgian National Championships. The Belgian star has not raced for several weeks and has focused his build-up entirely on the Tour de France.

As things currently stand, no medical certificate has reportedly been submitted to excuse his absence. Under Belgian federation regulations, that could theoretically open the door to disciplinary action, although any sanction severe enough to affect his Tour de France participation appears highly unlikely.

Belgian Cycling's Director of Sport, Massimo Van Lancker, recently underlined why the federation continues to defend the rule.

"We make every effort to maintain the high standard and prestige of the Belgian National Championships. That's why it's important that the best Belgian riders take part."

He added. "For many riders, that's not a problem, they're proud to compete for the national title. If riders are unable to race, they must submit official documents proving why they cannot participate. If they fail to do so, it may result in a sanction. There are no exceptions, the Belgian National Championships are mandatory for every professional rider."

Despite the strict wording of the regulations, Knetemann believes there are still ways around the system. "He can't really do that anymore because nobody would believe it now. But that doctor's note will probably still appear. I also think Tim Wellens might suddenly wake up on Sunday with a bit of a sore throat..."

That prompted journalist Marijn Abbenhuijs to question whether mandatory participation truly serves its purpose if medical certificates are accepted without further verification.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands is unlikely to introduce a similar rule any time soon, meaning riders such as Mathieu van der Poel remain free to skip the national championships without needing to justify their absence.

Even so, Knetemann feels there is still something special about seeing the country's biggest names compete for the tricolour jersey. "You could go on to win a stage at the Tour de France wearing the Dutch national champion's jersey."