11/08/2024

"Time to turn the switch again. Everything towards the World Championship and Il Lombardia" - Remco Evenepoel refocuses after short rest following Olympic glory

Remco Evenepoel's star has shone brightly these last few months. After a crash at the Itzulia Basque Country earlier this year threatened to ruin his 2024 season, the Soudal - Quick-Step leader podiumed at the Tour de France, before securing a historic Olympic double in Paris.

Now back in Belgium after a short holiday, Evenepoel is refreshed, refocused and ready to again, with two big goals still in the Belgian's sights before the season concludes. "It all has to sink in, but I do realise that it is special. So I am very satisfied and honoured," the 24-year-old reflects of his Olympic glory in conversation with Sporza. "The Tour and the 2 competitions at the Games were really the goal. I went for the medals twice, but 2 golds were a real plus. I am very proud."

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Despite enjoying the aforementioned short rest following his Olympic double and prior Tour de France podium, Evenepoel insists he won't be resting on his laurels. "My rest is already over. From Sunday to Saturday I did nothing and enjoyed a nice holiday with Oumi. I lay on the beach chair for a week, that was really necessary," he explains. "That's enough to recharge the batteries. From now on it's time to turn the switch again and everything towards the World Championship and the last race of the season, Il Lombardy."

"I can definitely recharge for what is yet to come this season. I don't know how I do that, it's automatic for me. I can go into hyperfocus and be in a very relaxed mood the next day. Next week that hyperfocus will be there again. That's my mentality, I think," he concludes, not yet content by what has already been an incredibly successful season for the Belgian. As an added bonus, Specialized has given him a new golden bike for the remainder of the campaign. "That's fancy. Apparently there's real gold leaf in it. They've done that nicely again. We're going to put it safely under lock and key."