Patrick Lefevere explains decision for new Soudal - Quick-Step coach: "Broché is a trainer, Vanthourenhout is a type of team leader"

Patrick Lefevere, a towering figure in professional cycling, is no longer at the helm of Soudal – Quick-Step. In the wake of his departure, the team’s decision to appoint Frederik Broché over Sven Vanthourenhout as a coach has sparked discussion. Lefevere shared his perspective on the matter in an interview with Het Laatste Nieuws.

“There is no comparison possible?” Lefevere said, addressing the contrast between the two candidates. “Broché is a trainer, Vanthourenhout is a type of team leader. There was never any question of choosing.”

Vanthourenhout, known as a confidant of Remco Evenepoel, the team’s star rider, was considered by some as a natural choice. However, Lefevere dismissed the notion that this played a significant role. “How many (confidants) does he have? You can’t sit behind him in the car with five of them?” he remarked. “His father mentioned that once, but that was never a point of discussion. I have always been against a 'team-within-the-team'. Even though we have actually come that far, but oh well.”

Lefevere questioned Vanthourenhout’s qualifications for the role, suggesting that his lack of experience in Grand Tours was a limiting factor. “Sven saw himself as a kind of coordinator. But on what basis? He has never done a big tour. Should he tell people who have been here for so long how to do it?”

Despite recognising Vanthourenhout’s contributions to the sport, Lefevere highlighted the practical considerations behind the decision. “Sure, he’s had a fantastic run at the cycling association. But it’s also an extra salary and the money isn’t inexhaustible. Plus: it became a lot for Koen Pelgrim. So we didn’t think it was a bad idea to put someone next to him.”