Remco Evenepoel has secured the 2024 World Champion title in
the men’s elite individual time trial after a stunning performance in Zurich.
Fresh off his double gold at the Paris Olympics, Evenepoel powered to his
second consecutive World Championship win, finishing ahead of Italy's Filippo
Ganna and Edoardo Affini, who completed the podium in second and third,
respectively.
The victory came with an added layer of emotion, as
Evenepoel’s parents, Agna and Patrick, and his wife, Oumi, watched on in
delight. However, the win wasn’t without drama. Just before the start,
Evenepoel dropped his chain, causing a moment of panic for his family and fans.
Fortunately, the issue was quickly resolved, allowing the defending champion to
begin his ride without further delay.
Patrick Evenepoel, himself a former pro, shared his thoughts
on the tense moments before the race with VTM NIEUWS. “I thought Remco
was still calm. When the problem was solved, he quickly turned the switch.
Evenepoel quickly got into his rhythm. I myself thought back to the road race
at the Olympic Games, when he got a flat tire with the finish in sight. For a
few seconds, you think: 'Oh, what now?' But Remco was quickly back on his bike
and also started well.”
Incredibly, Remco Evenepoel completed the time trial without
the use of his power meter, relying solely on instinct and his feel for the
race. This further highlighted the remarkable ability of the 24-year-old, who
continues to prove himself as one of the world’s best in the race against the
clock.
Evenepoel’s victory in Zurich caps a phenomenal summer,
which included a third-place finish at the 2024 Tour de France and his Olympic
triumphs in Paris. However, his success has not come without its challenges, as
he battled fatigue in the weeks following his Olympic heroics. Despite these
difficulties, the Belgian star managed to defend his world title.
Patrick Evenepoel reflected on his son’s resilience. “He
always remained calm. They worked well in Spain. The first day behind the moped
was difficult. The second day was better. The third, top. Then you know that it
is good."
Summing up his pride in Remco’s achievements, Patrick added,
“Double gold... Yeah... Remco gets a kick out of this, doesn’t he.”
With another world title to his name, Remco Evenepoel
continues to solidify his place among cycling’s elite, proving once again that
he thrives under pressure in the sport's biggest moments.