"This is not the end of the team" - Jurgen Fore wishes to write another successful chapter after Evenepoel's departure

The news of the day is that Remco Evenepoel will leave Soudal - Quick-Step after seven successful seasons with Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe buying out the last year on his contract. With this, a difficult period comes to an end for new CEO Jurgen Fore who had to resolve this lose-lose situation in the best way possible. Sponsors won't be happy to see the team's biggest star leave, but in a long run, Fore hopes to make this best of this turn of events.

"It's a kind of relief that there's clarity," Fore expressed his thoughts for Sporza. "The intention was to start discussions about the future after the Tour - a big goal for both of us." But it didn't get that far. "In June, it became clear that there was little opportunity for an extended stay. Because of what had already happened, we felt we didn't need to push for it. So we didn't."

"He's obviously been an important rider for our team. But we have others like that," nods the Belgian. "Although having such a top rider on your team boosts the visibility of the others."

Without Evenepoel, they no longer have an Olympic champion in their ranks. And it will be up to others to put the Soudal - Quick-Step name on the cycling map again. One such rider who'll enjoy extra leadership will be European champion Tim Merlier. "I think we now need to start racing broadly and as a team again."

According to Fore, there are no regrets. He claims the team had done maximum to satisfy their star, but the expiration date was already printed down. "We've done everything we can to make Remco happy. I want to turn the page now and have confidence in the team. We've been around for 23 years and have written many chapters. This is just one of them."

Fore appreciated the way an agreement was ultimately reached, without unnecessary drama. "We're not going to discuss sums, but it's a fair amount. Although sponsors like Soudal would prefer to see a contract honored, we decided we didn't want to go to court."

"Now it's up to us to outline the vision for the future. Chasing GC positions and winning stages in Grand Tours will certainly be part of that. Our time was turbulent, but everything always went smoothly and professionally. It's a wonderful chapter, and I look forward to writing new ones," outlined the CEO.

"This is absolutely not the end of the team," he concluded calmly.