"Nothing indicates stress and pressure" - Kristof Meul on Remco Evenepoel at Vuelta a Espana
Cycling
Although the physical aspect is crucial, the psychological may be just as important when it comes to top end racing. Remco Evenepoel put on a great display of calm and control at last year's Vuelta a Espana, he's said to be in a relaxed mood heading into his attempt at a title defense.
"Playing reporter yourself, waving hands to the audience... Evenepoel looks very relaxed," Kristof Meul told Sporza. "Remco makes a super chilled and super relaxed impression. Yesterday he had a lot of media obligations, which he completed with a smile. Evenepoel also played reporter with his camera for his documentary series 'Rainbow Remco' and interviewed people from the organization. He is very comfortable. Nothing indicates stress and pressure."
He's having to battle Primoz Roglic and Jonas Vingegaard who lead Jumbo-Visma that has the goal of winning the Vuelta, however in factual terms both have won a Grand Tour already this season and the Vuelta victory wouldn't even be their brightest achievement of 2023. Hence it is an interesting mix of mentalities entering the race, but a fight that should be very exciting.
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"He enjoyed the applause and rode off to the audience with a broad smile and waves. His mission this summer has already succeeded with that world title in Stirling," he continues. "This Vuelta is an extra for Evenepoel, who should not win here, but wants to win. He gives that impression. Remco is someone who likes to be in the spotlight and gets energy from it. But now you notice that he is not consciously looking for it."
However behind that relaxed figure remains a very tense topic that has been swarming Quick-Step for the past few weeks. A feud between team boss Patrick Lefevere and his agent Patrick Evenepoel, the constant need to sign more climbers, and recently the choice of Ilan van Wilder to skip the Vuelta and focus on his own ambitions. Contract wise this all looks far from ideal.
"The Ineos rumors are sensitive. Yesterday before the interview it was asked not to ask questions about Ineos," Meul reveals. "If there is something to say about that theme, Remco will say it himself."
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It's amazing how Evenepoel thrives in the spotlight - it seems to fuel his competitive spirit. He's already had an incredible season with his world title in Stirling, and I'm excited to see what he can do at Vuelta a España. Regardless of the outcome, he's certainly one of the most entertaining riders to watch.
This article does a great job capturing the current dynamics within the Quick-Step team. It's clear that there's a lot going on behind the scenes, and it's interesting to see how these issues might impact Evenepoel's performance. I'm hoping that whatever is happening with Ineos doesn't distract him from his goal.
I love watching Evenepoel race - he's got such a mature head on his shoulders for a young rider. It's fascinating to see how he balances the physical and psychological aspects of the sport. His relaxed attitude really sets him apart from other riders. Looking forward to seeing him defend his title at Vuelta!
Many experts would challenge your claim of Remco being a 'mature' rider....he's very emotional which can be a bad thing when things aren't going well. Let's see how he handles this Vuelta when he has a target on his back with the big guns if they all last 3 weeks. He only won last year because Roglic crashed out.
I think this race will be his biggest test so far Alex. Lets see how it pans out. Of the favourites Mas is in pole position at the moment. It will be a long three weeks for Evanpoel if he plans to defend his lead over the other favourites. He lost his cool at the finish of the stage, but that was understandable given the conditions they had to race in.
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