Philippe Gilbert believes that with more TT kilometers, Remco Evenepoel could win Tour one day: "It is up to ASO to design a Tour de France Remco can win"

Remco Evenepoel has made a clear statement at this year's Tour de France. Anyone who still thought the Belgian is not a 'real deal' in terms of being a top GC contender, must have admitted that Soudal - Quick-Step rider has what it takes to possibly even challenge the likes of Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard in years to come.

Speaking to Cyclism'Actu, Evenepoel's compatriot and a former world champion Philippe Gilbert looked back at the 24-year-old's performance. "Did he surprise me? Honestly no because I think deep down the podium was his ambition. Publicly, he remained cautious, he talked about top 5 and I think that was wise of him, but his goal was the podium and he did it," Gilbert appreciates Evenepoel's mature down-to-earth approach.

According to Gilbert, the absence of Primoz Roglic in the last week may have taken away a bit of the possible drama in the battle for final podium. The Slovenian didn't look to be in his best shape, but realistically, he was still the closest challenger for the podium. "It would have been interesting to see the battle with Roglic, unfortunately, he had to leave the race after a fall. Without this fall, it would have been a good battle and I think we could even have seen tactically some alliances."

Overall winner of Vuelta a Espana and stages at all three Grand tours, Evenepoel can now aim for the stars, Gilbert believes. But defeating Vingegaard and Pogacar won't be an easy task. Perhaps a bit of helping hand from the organisers could turn the odds in Remco's favor? "Of course, Remco can think bigger now. It is also ASO who holds the cards. It is up to them to design a Tour de France with 3 time trials for example, I think that is what is needed for him to win."