Patrick Lefevere: "Many world champions have not lived up to expectations because they have not had the winter they needed"

Being a World Champion is frequently the greatest honour in cycling, but simultaneously it can be a difficult thing to manage. Patrick Lefevere of all people is one of the managers who knows it best having been on the helm of Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl Team for several years, and he's shared his thoughts in a recent interview.

“What we say about the jersey derives from the fact that in winter the world champion does not carry out his usual preparation," Lefevere told RTBF. "They are invited everywhere, to receptions, in cities, town halls, to receive prizes… When you are at a high level there is a small percentage that allows you to win or lose. Many world champions have not lived up to expectations because they have not had the winter they needed."

The likes of Tom Boonen, Paolo Bettini, Michal Kwiatkowski and Julian Alaphilippe all anticipated the now reigning holder of the rainbow jersey Remco Evenepoel, who has for many years been at the center of attention. 2023 will be no different, with a target on his chest (literally) and off the back of a season which also included monument and Grand Tour wins.

However, Evenepoel has been praised for his calm this year, Lefevere has confidence in the young Belgian. “The only risk he runs is that with this shirt he wants to show off even more. Everyone recognizes this jersey. When it moves it will sound the alarm in group. I hope he doesn't want to overdo it," he concluded.