Remco Evenepoel took a major step in his development over the course of the 2024 season. As a result, the Soudal - Quick-Step leader has now been awarded the prestigious Kristallen Fiets trophy for best Belgian rider of the year at a ceremony in Kruisem on Tuesday evening.
Finishing ahead of teammate Tim Merlier, it marks the fourth time in Evenepoel's career that he has won the award after 2019, 2022 and 2023. “Receiving this trophy for the fourth time in my career makes me proud and happy," reflected the 24-year-old, double Olympic champion afterwards, in quotes collected by Soudal - Quick-Step's official website. "I am satisfied with my season. Maybe I got fewer wins than last year, but I think the quality of those victories counts a lot. Let’s not forget that the crash in the Basque Country derailed my spring and possibly cost me a couple of wins. That’s why, overall, I can be content with what I achieved this year.”
Alongside the double Olympic success in Paris, Evenepoel can look back on a podium at the Tour de France on debut, plus a White Jersey triumph, another World Championship victory in the individual time trial, plus stages of Paris - Nice and the Criterium du Dauphine.
“I’ve made an important step by finishing my first Tour on the podium, but it wasn’t the only highlight of the year, with the gold medals in Paris being something that I’ll forever cherish," Evenepoel reminisces. "The fact that I could remain competitive until towards the end of the season, successfully defending my ITT title at the Worlds and then riding to my first Lombardia podium it’s also important. These are things that motivate me to work even harder and become better next year, when I will start my seventh season in the Soudal Quick-Step season.”
Finishing an incredible season with my first podium here at Il Lombardia.🥈🇮🇹🔥 GRATEFUL, the only right word to describe my feelings. I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved together. Thanks to the team, my wife and family, the fans, everyone for the incredible support.🐺💙 My…
