Not even Remco Evenepoel's pleads were enough - Tour of Britain winner Wellens confirms World Championships absence as UAE duties become priority
Cycling
Tim Wellens is not taking part in the upcoming World Championships, despite Belgian seeking top classics riders to fight for the rainbow jersey in which they now have the main favourite for. Remco Evenepoel messaged the Belgian, but he will be racing for UAE Team Emirates - XRG during the World's period.
Just over a week ago, Belgian national coach Serge Pauwels had spoken about the choices for the upcoming race, in which Wellens had ruled himself out: “Tim could not start in the Renewi Tour and has let me know that the World Championships in just over a month make little sense either".
“I couldn't move an inch in training for two weeks. I couldn't pedal 150 watts," Wellens shared with Het Nieuwsblad at the Tour of Britain. He did not take to the start of the Renewi Tour where he had won in the past, and returned to racing at the Tour of Britain.
The former Belgian national champion was one of the main favourites for the race and delivered, as UAE Team Emirates - XRG dominated the fight for the overall classification, finishing off with a collective masterclass into Earlston where five of its riders formed part of the small front group.
Tour of Britain winner Tim Wellens will not race the World Championships
Evenepoel tried convincing Wellens to race World Championships
Wellens conquered the overall classification and proved he is close to top form. But that does not change his previous decision. He reveals that even Remco Evenepoel spoke to him to try and convince Wellens to race.
“I have to be honest: I hesitated for a moment. Not because of Serge [Pauwels], but because of messages I received from Remco".
"Those messages showed that Remco would have liked to have me on the team. That flattered my ego. But I am still sticking to my decision.”
UAE responsibilities come in the way of World Championships
The decision is not to race the World Championships. Not because he does not have the form or health, nor is it because he does not think it suits him - Wellens has previously won the GP de Montréal, on the same roads that the event will be taking place in. Rather, it is because of his team duties at UAE Team Emirates - XRG.
“I realize that it is an honor and a privilege to race for the national team. However, I have already given my word to the team," he stated.
"I will complete the final races of the season for the team, which coincide with the World Championships. The team is struggling with many injuries this season and has a shortage of available riders. That is why I am stepping in," he explained.
Belgium has Remco Evenepoel - currently training at altitude in Livigno - and an in-form Wout Van Aert as leaders for the Worlds, providing a strong block. But the rest of the team is still being assembled at the time being.
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