"Why do they need to add such stages to a Grand Tour?" - Remco Evenepoel unimpressed by stage 9 gravel on 2024 Tour de France route

One of the most talked about parts of the 2024 Tour de France presentation was the reveal that gravel will be included on stage 9 of the race. Many riders and teams alike have been uncertain about this decision and Remco Evenepoel is no different.

The Belgian leader of Soudal - Quick-Step who won the 2022 Vuelta a Espana and was leading the 2023 Giro d'Italia before being forced out with covid is expected to make his first appearance at the Tour de France next summer. The introduction of gravel on stage 9 however, has left Evenepoel less than impressed, as he has revealed in conversation with Het Laatste Nieuws.

"There are specific events and championships for gravel racing. Why do they need to add such stages to a Grand Tour?" Evenepoel questions. "I don't think that's necessary."

Despite this seeming confusion at the decision to include such a stage, Evenepoel is not daunted by facing this particular obstacle. “When I train in Pajottenland, I sometimes cross over to Leuven and I sometimes dare to take on such a gravel strip," he explains. "If you are lucky, the somewhat loose surface will be hard and it will look like you are just driving on asphalt.”