As we regroup following the exciting recent stages of the Giro d’Italia, we have a packed EUROTRASH to discuss this Thursday:
MAIN STORY:
- UAE Emirates XRG manager: “We misjudged Simon Yates”
Rider Updates:
- Jonas Vingegaard: “I relish having a rival like Pogačar; I hope he feels the same”
- Wout van Aert triumphed in the Trofeo Bonacossa at the Giro d’Italia
- Matthew Brennan in Norway: “I will cherish this moment for a lifetime”
- Could a superior version of Remco Evenepoel emerge in the Tour?
- Is Kaden Groves set to join the Tour de France?
- Romain Bardet offers a specific reason for his retirement
- Shari Bossuyt’s doping ban is nearing its end: “I disregard public opinion”
- Fabio Jakobsen does not dismiss the possibility of participating in the Tour de France
- Cian Uijtdebroeks requests more time from Visma | Lease a Bike
- Belgian junior champion Mathias De Keersmaeker receives a congratulatory call from Remco Evenepoel
- Patrick Lefevere pays tribute to Ludo Dierckxsens
Team News:
- How XDS Astana has implemented a ‘moneyball’ strategy in cycling
- UAE Emirates XRG may not send Juan Ayuso to the Vuelta a España
- Eneicat women’s UCI cycling team plans to elevate their status
- Soudal Quick-Step prepares for the Critérium du Dauphiné
- Next events on the agenda for Picnic PostNL
- Soudal Quick-Step returns to Belgian competitions
Race Announcements:
- A fresh route and experience unveiled for the 2025 Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec
MAIN STORY: UAE Emirates XRG Manager: “We Misjudged Simon Yates”
Team manager Mauro Gianetti has recognized that mistakes were made by the UAE Emirates XRG team during stage 20 of the Giro d’Italia. His associate, Fabio Baldato, concurs, admitting their team underestimated Simon Yates and feels disappointed about not encouraging Isaac Del Toro more.
“We clearly misjudged Simon,” Baldato shared in a conversation with Bicisport. “He performed outstandingly on Saturday. Just analyze his climbing times. There was a significant mental and physical challenge between Isaac and Richard Carapaz. Ultimately, the strongest and cleverest rider prevailed.”
Baldato observed how Carapaz and Del Toro were engaged in a duel on the Colle delle Finestre and inhibited each other’s performance. “The plan for Del Toro was to track Carapaz, as we expected him to push early on. Isaac managed to react well initially, but Simon wisely distanced himself and instigated the rivalry between the other two.”
As Yates increased his lead over Carapaz and Del Toro, Baldato admits concern arose in the UAE Emirates XRG team car when the gap reached 30 seconds, particularly since Yates had the formidable Wout van Aert alongside him. “Midway up the climb, we urged Isaac to keep Yates in check, but we only did so once. Ultimately, he decided to reserve his strength for the final stages.”
Baldato expressed some regret for not encouraging Del Toro to pursue Yates more vigorously. “It pains Isaac, the team, and me. Perhaps I should have advised him again: ‘You must chase now.’ Although it’s easy to assess with hindsight, we must remember Isaac’s young age and respect for Carapaz, who has previously won a Grand Tour.”
UAE could have acted differently:
Jonas Vingegaard: “I Relish Having a Rival Like Pogačar, I Hope He Feels the Same”
Rumors suggest Jonas Vingegaard is preparing well for the Tour de France, and he has confirmed this, looking to make significant strides in his preparation at the Critérium du Dauphiné this Sunday.
“I feel like a completely different athlete than last year,” he revealed in conversation with Eurosport. “My body is responding excellently to the training I’ve undertaken. My ultimate aim is to be in peak shape for the Tour de France, and I enjoy the process of hard work. Everyone has improved, so I must step up as well. To win the Tour, I need to outdo my performance from two years ago; I feel myself progressing.”
In the Dauphiné, the Visma | Lease a Bike rider will finally face his key competitor, Tadej Pogačar, for the first time in almost a year. Vingegaard expresses high regard for the Slovenian. “Without Tadej, things wouldn’t be the same. I genuinely appreciate having him as a rival. I hope he feels the same way.”
Vingegaard anticipates his upcoming clash with Pogačar:
Wout van Aert Triumphed in the Trofeo Bonacossa at the Giro d’Italia
Wout van Aert functioned as a remarkable support for Giro winner Simon Yates on Saturday and assisted Olav Kooij to victory in the final stage on Sunday. However, van Aert also claimed a personal accolade on the last day of the Giro d’Italia by winning the Trofeo Bonacossa, awarded by a panel of journalists to the rider who achieved ‘the most outstanding sports performance’ in the three-week event.
Van Aert faced difficulties at the beginning of the Giro d’Italia, finishing second behind Mads Pedersen in the opening stage, but struggled during the early days due to a viral infection in preparation. The Belgian made a striking comeback in the first full week, winning the Strade Bianche stage and playing a critical role in both of Olav Kooij’s stage wins, notably excelling in the final mountain stage where his efforts helped Yates secure the pink jersey.
This impressive performance earned van Aert the Trofeo Bonacossa, named in honor of Alberto Bonacossa, former owner of La Gazzetta dello Sport. He becomes just the second Belgian to receive the award, following Philippe Gilbert who won it in 2015.
Van Aert wasn’t alone on the podium, as Lorenzo Fortunato, winner of the KOM jersey, was recognized as the most combative rider of the Giro, while Dries De Bondt secured the intermediate sprint classification and Manuele Tarozzi was celebrated as both the Red Bull kilometer competition winner and the rider with the most kilometers in the break throughout the Giro.
Van Aert earned the Trofeo Bonacossa for his support of Simon Yates:
Matthew Brennan in Norway: “I Will Always Remember This for the Rest of My Life”
Matthew Brennan clinched victory in the final stage of the Tour of Norway on Sunday, also achieving the overall win in the four-day stage race. This marks the first professional stage race win for the 19-year-old.
“This is incredible,” Brennan stated after his second stage victory of the week in Stavanger, posted on the Visma | Lease a Bike website. “The finale was perilous and extremely intense. Thanks to my team’s exceptional work, we were able to secure another sprint. The margin was tight, but I felt I had crossed the line ahead of Kristoff. Fortunately, I was right.”
Brennan expressed deep appreciation for his team: “This wouldn’t have been achievable without them. We showed remarkable synergy over the previous days. This is my first general classification victory as a professional rider, and I will never forget these triumphs.”
Brennan has unlocked the secret to winning:
Will We See an Even Better Remco Evenepoel in the Tour?
The Tour de France is fast approaching, and many top riders will compete in the Critérium du Dauphiné beforehand. Remco Evenepoel will participate, but expectations are high for the Belgian come July. His coach, Koen Pelgrim, believes we can anticipate an improved version of Remco.
In an interview with Het Nieuwsblad, Pelgrim reflects on the upcoming competition phase. “Remco is ahead of schedule compared to last year. He had a rough start to last year’s altitude training camp for the Dauphiné and struggled initially. After a restful week, he has begun altitude training in a better state this year. He is undoubtedly better prepared,” Pelgrim shared. “Last year, we witnessed significant improvements between the Dauphiné and the Tour, so we’ll see if Remco maintains this momentum.”
Due to a training accident in December, Evenepoel faced challenges at the beginning of his 2025 season. Has he recovered his lost ground? “Overall, due to his winter hiatus and injuries, he was off the bike for four months. Recapturing that time isn’t straightforward. While a swift return to a good level is possible, it’s those final few percent that matter most. Consistent training over an extended time is crucial for that.”
Evenepoel no longer fears weight loss. “He is 1.5 kilos lighter compared to last year. Last year he had to lose weight post-Dauphiné, which was a struggle. Now, the process has been gradual. Last year, we had to juggle both his target weight and form. It’s a positive shift that he doesn’t need to do that this year.”
Evenepoel prepared for the Tour:
Will Kaden Groves Compete in the Tour de France?
Earlier this year, Kaden Groves indicated he aimed to ride not just the Giro d’Italia but also the Tour de France. The latter Grand Tour is ‘definitely a possibility’, though Groves is still keeping his options open.
In a discussion with Cycling Pro Net, Groves reflected on his Giro experience and looked forward to the Tour de France. Will the 26-year-old sprinter be at the start in Lille in five weeks?
“The plan remains to recover post-Giro, then attend an altitude training camp ahead of the Tour,” shared the sprinter. “The Tour is certainly an option, but it hinges on my recovery from the Giro. For now, I’ll focus on resting.”
Thus, Groves’ debut in the Tour de France (July 5-27) is still uncertain. In February, he expressed his role within the team: “In the Tour, I’ll primarily support Jasper and Mathieu (Philipsen and Van der Poel). Jasper has an impressive track record there, yet I dream of contending for stage wins myself. Perhaps an opportunity will arise this year.”
Groves heading to the Tour?
Romain Bardet Announces Reasons for Retirement
Romain Bardet is nearing the end of his professional cycling journey. The Frenchman will compete in the Critérium du Dauphiné (June 8-15) before concluding his career. Why is Bardet retiring at the age of 34? “I lack the consistency I once had,” he stated in an interview with Ciclo21.
Bardet has participated in the Giro d’Italia recently, seeking a stage victory but coming up short. He nearly succeeded on stage 17 to Bormio but faced the harsh truth. “I had a wonderful Giro with the team (Picnic PostNL), although I had hoped for more personally. I feel frustrated because I didn’t seize my chance,” referring to the stage won by Isaac Del Toro concluding in Bormio.
“The competition level in the peloton is exceptionally high today, and I must focus on stages. I can no longer compete for the general classification. The timing seems right to step away,” Bardet reflected as he looks ahead to retirement.
However, before retiring, Bardet will race in the Critérium du Dauphiné, where he has previously enjoyed success, including his first WorldTour victory there a decade ago when he soloed to victory in a mountain stage to Pra-Loup. Bardet also achieved podium finishes in 2016 and 2018, finishing second and third overall, respectively.
Bardet preparing to hang up his racing bike soon:
Shari Bossuyt’s Doping Suspension is Nearing Completion: “I Don’t Care What Others Think”
Shari Bossuyt’s two-year doping ban is about to conclude. The 24-year-old cyclist will be eligible to return to competition on June 14 with the AG Insurance-Soudal team. “They took something from me, and I refuse to give in,” she remarked in an interview with Sporza.
Bossuyt tested positive in March 2023 after winning the third stage of the Tour of Normandy. She was unaware of how the prohibited substance entered her system, and the French doping agency later acknowledged that it had not been consumed intentionally. Nevertheless, a two-year suspension was imposed. With her suspension concluding on June 13, Bossuyt will race again from June 14, having secured a spot with AG Insurance-Soudal.
“I still feel shivers when recalling everything that happened,” Bossuyt stated. “I’m indifferent to what others may think. I know I never engaged in doping, and I never will. I never contemplated quitting. They robbed me of something I didn’t do. I refuse to give in.”
After leaving her old team, Canyon//SRAM zondacrypto, she reached out to Jolien D’hoore, the manager of AG Insurance-Soudal. “I was aware she had expressed interest in me for some time,” she recounted. “We connected right from our initial conversation.”
Bossuyt will return in a kermis race, with her first WorldTour event being the Copenhagen Sprint on June 21, followed by the Belgian Championship and potentially the Tour de France Femmes.
Bossuyt set to return to competition:
Fabio Jakobsen Does Not Dismiss Possibility of Competing in the Tour de France
Fabio Jakobsen is recovering from surgery on his narrowed pelvic arteries, but there’s still a chance he could participate in the Tour de France. He shared this in the podcast Speed On Wheels. The sprinter acknowledged that it will be ‘very tight’.
“I frequently receive inquiries about my Tour plans,” Jakobsen stated. “I respond that it will be very close. I can’t confirm either way. However, the likelihood of not participating is greater than that of attending. Others in peak condition deserve the chance to compete. However, you never know, but my chances are minimal.”
Jakobsen announced on March 31 that he would halt racing temporarily due to injury. Two days later, he successfully underwent surgery for a condition commonly seen in cyclists, which reduces blood flow to the leg muscles, consequently impacting cycling performance. He required about six weeks for recovery. On May 24, Jakobsen released a training video from Tenerife on Instagram.
The Picnic PostNL rider had his tests leading to surgery conducted in Belgium through his previous team, Soudal Quick-Step. “I sought an independent assessment to clarify what was happening,” Jakobsen explained. “I wanted to have a clear understanding of my condition and informed the team once the diagnosis materialized.”
“In the Netherlands, simultaneous operations on two veins are rare due to increased risk, but they were done in Belgium. They had experience with successful outcomes and I was able to secure a relatively quick appointment. This speaks to how acquaintances accumulate over a career. This connection came through a doctor who became a close friend, extending beyond my team ties.”
Jakobsen to compete in the Tour?
Cian Uijtdebroeks Requests Additional Time from Visma | Lease a Bike
Cian Uijtdebroeks’ return to competition with Visma | Lease a Bike is taking longer than anticipated. After withdrawing from Tirreno-Adriatico, he attempted a comeback in mid-April with three consecutive races in France, but the 22-year-old Belgian has not raced since then.
Uijtdebroeks and his Dutch team have jointly agreed for him to take several more weeks off. “Cian performed well last year until he experienced back issues,” said Richard Plugge to Het Laatste Nieuws. “This year he faced additional physical challenges, so he requested some time to recover entirely. I find that acceptable; it will be beneficial for the long term.” Uijtdebroeks won’t participate in the Tour of Switzerland or any Grand Tours.
“We need to build steadily with him,” the Visma | Lease a Bike manager stated. “Some youngsters excel right out of the gate, like Matthews Brennan, while others take longer to reach their peak.” Uijtdebroeks deserves this time, having previously won the Tour de l’Avenir in 2022 and placing highly in multiple other races.
Uijtdebroeks still sidelined:
Mathias De Keersmaeker Receives a Call from Remco Evenepoel
After winning the Belgian junior men’s championship on Sunday, Mathias De Keersmaeker received a congratulatory call from Remco Evenepoel. The 18-year-old champion rides for the R.EV Brussels Cycling Academy, which was launched by the Olympic gold medalist.
“Remco is heavily involved and is quick to learn the results,” De Keersmaeker shared in an interview after his victory. He excelled in a bunch sprint. Shortly after finishing, he received a call from the Soudal Quick-Step leader.
Evenepoel was in Spain but was anxiously monitoring his academy’s performance. “He specifically timed his training so he could make the call if we won. Patrick (Evenepoel’s father) mentioned that Remco had predicted this outcome, which was exciting.”
Patrick Lefevere Remembers Ludo Dierckxsens
In Patrick Lefevere’s latest column in Het Nieuwsblad, the Belgian ex-cyclist and team manager reflected on the late Ludo Dierckxsens:
“Such news leaves one feeling low briefly. Ludo Dierckxsens has passed away at the young age of sixty. He was still actively cycling, a sport he was evidently committed to, reminding us that death holds no regard for age or lifestyle.”
“Ludo had a unique story in cycling, turning pro at 29. He was cautious initially, questioning his ability. He was a diligent worker, albeit not a natural talent. Financial realities also influenced him; as an amateur spray painter at DAF earning bonuses, he was more financially stable than as a less lucrative pro. A friend, Wilfried Peeters, encouraged him persistently to pursue it anyway.”
“While latecomers in the peloton are still common nowadays, those like Jay Vines or Jason Osbourne came from different sports. Unlike them, Ludo had prior experience racing in a peloton, having been accustomed to pushing through tough situations.”
“Ludo was never deeply integrated into our team, not for any particular reason, but he preferred to race by intuition, unbound by team tactics. I recall the 1999 Belgian Championship in Geraardsbergen; he was ahead early on, defining our race. We were unprepared at that moment, but he managed to turn the situation to his advantage.”
“What I found puzzling was that Ludo lacked competitive experience or perhaps didn’t prioritize it. In the 2001 Paris-Roubaix, when Servais Knaven won, Wilfried Peeters spent time alone at the front. Ludo rode hard to catch up with his friend. Johan Museeuw questioned why he was doing so; true competition often rewards the smart racer, yet Ludo simply rode ahead. It was a mindset common among amateurs.”
“His honesty or perhaps naivety led to his suspension; he confessed to using a product lacking certification. Although Ludo never tested positive, during the 1999 Tour—dubbed the Renouveau—the organizers sought to make an example, with Ludo as an easy target. At seventy, you ponder ages when reading obituaries. It’s jarring how many youngsters we lose far too early. In our team, a junior once collapsed from a heart issue during a race. Coincidentally, I faced my accident around the same time; it was heart-wrenching how much focus was placed on my lesser issues while that young person’s story was so dire. Thankfully, that young athlete survived, but their dream of racing is over. It’s cliché yet true: while health may not be everything, without it, there’s nothing.”
Rest in peace, Ludo:
How XDS Astana Adopted a ‘Moneyball’ Approach to Cycling
In an interview with Bistrot Vélo, Alexandre Vinokourov explained how he guided his XDS-Astana team to remain in the WorldTour. His methodology resembles the ‘moneyball’ concept, which relies on data to drive success within budget constraints by bringing in undervalued athletes.
“This year we brought on a French analyst to calculate UCI points,” Vinkourov began. “We analyzed statistics from the previous three years and assessed the strengths in different race lineups. We discovered that it wasn’t beneficial to race in Portugal early in the season since those events fall into a unique category. Thus, we opted out to avoid a loss of points.”
In the first months, XDS-Astana raced extensively in France, achieving success in the Tour des Alpes-Maritimes and the Classic Var. The team also accumulated numerous points in locations such as China, Greece, Hungary, and Turkey. “We have added forty more race days in 2025. The more racing you engage in, the more points you can collect. A single day victory equates to 125 UCI points. I can confidently say our—French—program has been fruitful this year,” he concluded.
“By March, few were considering us, and Arkéa stated they paid us no mind. However, after Paris-Nice, concerns began to arise. We are relentless and will push through to the end. I have high hopes for Alberto Bettiol in the second half of the season; I aim for us to accumulate even more points with him.”
Vinokourov aspires to maintain WorldTour status:
UAE Emirates XGR Prefers Not to Send Juan Ayuso to the Vuelta a España
Following Juan Ayuso’s exit from the Giro d’Italia, the Vuelta a España was seen as his next significant goal. While the 22-year-old wishes to participate in his home race this August, sources indicate he will not be included in the Vuelta plans from the UAE Emirates XRG team, according to the Spanish paper AS.
Ayuso previously mentioned he would refrain from racing in the coming weeks due to a knee injury sustained during a crash in a gravel stage to Siena. According to AS, a comeback may happen at the Clásica San Sebastián scheduled for Saturday, August 2.
This would set him up for his key autumn objective, the World Championships in Rwanda by the end of September. Although Ayuso aspires to compete in the last Grand Tour of the season, he has acknowledged to various Spanish outlets that he isn’t included in the line-up for the Spanish Grand Tour.
The UAE Emirates XRG team prefers that cyclists under 25 don’t undertake two Grand Tours in a single season. Team manager Mauro Gianetti noted last weekend that Isaac Del Toro, who finished second overall in the Giro, will not participate in any other three-week stage races this season.
No Vuelta for Juan Ayuso:
Eneicat Women’s UCI Team Set to Advance
Exciting developments for Spanish women’s cycling as the Eneicat Women’s team is in talks with a notable national sponsor, potentially enabling the Leones team to progress to the Pro Tour by 2026.
Discussions to finalize the agreement are well advanced, with few details to sort out, indicating robust growth for the Spanish team year-on-year.
The team, under the leadership of Eneritz Iturriaga and Humberto Gómez, remains cautious, prioritizing thorough preparation to ensure the project’s stability for the years ahead.
Eneicat nearing new sponsorship deal:
Soudal Quick-Step at the Critérium du Dauphiné
Remco Evenepoel leads our team into one of the most prestigious stage races of the season
04-Jun-2025: The Critérium du Dauphiné, a crucial pre-Tour de France test, will commence in Domérat, with the initial two days favoring sprinters on the undulating terrain in Montluçon and Issoire. The third stage may provide breakaway riders a chance before an individual time trial of 17.7 km in Ardèche, likely establishing significant gaps in the overall standings.
Mâcon, a frequent fixture in the Tour route, presents sprinters one last opportunity to shine, while the climbers will take center stage during the final three days with challenging summit finishes at Combloux, Valmeinier (16.5 km, 6.7%), and Plateau de Mont-Cenis (9.6 km, 6.9%), vital in determining the competition’s outcome.
Olympic Champion Remco Evenepoel, a stage winner previously, will spearhead Soudal Quick-Step at the Critérium du Dauphiné, supported by a strong lineup including Pascal Eenkhoorn, Tour of Oman runner-up Valentin Paret-Peintre, Casper Pedersen, Pepijn Reinderink, Itzulia Basque Country stage winner Maximilian Schachmann, and Louis Vervaeke.
“I’m delighted to return with the team. I had a solid altitude training camp in Sierra Nevada and I’m ready for the Dauphiné. While I don’t have specific goals, I aim to assess my form. Of course, I aspire to be in contention for good results, yet we will take it stage by stage and see how it unfolds next week,” stated Remco.
“The course is demanding, as expected. The time trial will be a nice gauge, though significant differences may not emerge. The final stages will be the toughest, helping us gauge our current standing. We hope Remco can deliver a strong time trial and perform well on the climbs, though we’re not eyeing the overall victory yet. With a strong and balanced team, we’ll strive for commendable results,” said sports director Tom Steels.
08.06–15.06 Critérium du Dauphiné (FRA) 2.UWT
Riders:
Pascal Eenkhoorn (NED)
Remco Evenepoel (BEL)
Valentin Paret-Peintre (FRA)
Casper Phillip Pedersen (DEN)
Pepijn Reinderink (NED)
Maximilian Schachmann (GER)
Louis Vervaeke (BEL).
Sports Directors: Dries Devenyns (BEL), Klaas Lodewyck (BEL), and Tom Steels (BEL).
Evenepoel heading to the Dauphiné:
Upcoming Events for Picnic PostNL
Tour of Britain Women – JUNE 05 – JUNE 08
Callum Ferguson – Team Picnic PostNL coach: “We’ll approach the Tour of Britain with full determination and clear dual objectives. With sprinting opportunities anticipated, we’ll put everything into Charlotte as our finisher in the fast finishes. Simultaneously, we’ll target general classification for the first time with Mara, who will test herself in a complete stage race. The route has unpredictable days that can go either way—sprinting or GC. Thankfully, we possess a versatile squad prepared to adapt to various scenarios, making for an exciting challenge.”
Team composition:
Rachele Barbieri (ITA)
Megan Jastrab (USA)
Charlotte Kool (NLD)
Josie Nelson (GBR)
Esmée Peperkamp (NLD)
Mara Roldan (CAN).
Heistse Pijl – JUNE 07
Roy Curvers – Team Picnic PostNL coach: “Heistse Pijl is a traditional Belgian one-day race typically concluding in a bunch sprint. However, the course features the climb and descent of Heistse Berg, essential in the last two kilometers of the competition, transforming it into a contest for sprinters with a punch. We bring a robust team with fast riders like Tobias and Pavel, capable of excelling in such finishes.”
Team composition:
Tobias Lund Andresen (DNK)
Pavel Bittner (CZE)
Patrick Eddy (AUS)
Sean Flynn (GBR)
Tim Naberman (NLD)
Timo Roosen (NLD)
Mees Vlot (NLD).
Brussels Cycling Classic – JUNE 08
Roy Curvers – Team Picnic PostNL coach: “The Brussels Cycling Classic course features a combination of notable climbs in the Flemish Ardennes and the hills of Brabant. However, the last stretch mainly involves a flat run back to Brussels, creating a battle between riders who thrive on climbs and sprinters seeking to reintegrate. Our selection accommodates both types of riders, ensuring we’re prepared for any eventualities in the race.”
Team composition:
Tobias Lund Andresen (DNK)
Pavel Bittner (CZE)
Patrick Eddy (AUS)
Nils Eekhoff (NLD)
Sean Flynn (GBR)
Timo Roosen (NLD)
Bram Welten (NLD).
Critérium du Dauphiné – JUNE 08 – JUNE 15
Phil West – Team Picnic PostNL coach: “Following a strong Giro d’Italia, we look forward to our next stage race—the Critérium du Dauphiné. With three Giro riders on board, we are keen to sustain the positive teamwork demonstrated in Italy. Max and Romain both concluded the Giro on a high note, and we aim to support them for stage results while also keeping a watchful eye on the overall classification. The mix of challenging mountains and demanding stages presents daily opportunities, making this a compelling finale to Romain’s road career.”
Team composition:
Romain Bardet (FRA)
Romain Combaud (FRA)
Chris Hamilton (AUS)
Bjorn Koerdt (GBR)
Enzo Leijnse (NLD)
Juan Guillermo Martinez (COL)
Max Poole (GBR).
Antwerp Port Epic – JUNE 09
Melvin Rulliere – Team Picnic PostNL coach: “Antwerp Port Epic emphasizes grit, skill, and teamwork, renowned for its gravel sectors and relentless positioning strategies. This demands riders who are not only strong physically but also technically adept and fully committed. Our team boasts motivated cyclists well-suited for this terrain. With effective collaboration and execution, we aim for aggressive racing and victory.”
Team composition:
Tobias Lund Andresen (DNK)
Patrick Eddy (AUS)
Nils Eekhoff (NLD)
Tim Naberman (NLD)
Timo Roosen (NLD)
Christiaan van Rees (NLD)
Bram Welten (NLD).
Paris – Troyes – JUNE 09
Bennie Lambregts – Team Picnic PostNL coach: “Paris – Troyes is a valuable addition to our Development program calendar. This race is particularly suited for riders who handle selective terrain and aggressive racing well. Featuring rolling hills and lengthy open sections where the wind can significantly influence outcomes, the race’s recent editions have often resulted in small lead groups and noticeable time gaps. Our squad is prepared for this type of competition; we’re ready to tackle the challenge head-on.”
Team composition:
Vincent Bodet (FRA)
Johan Dorussen (NLD)
Ryan Gal (NLD)
Ko Molenaar (NLD)
Xander Scheldeman (BEL)
Angus Stoneham (GBR)
Thom van der Werff (NLD).
Critérium du Dauphiné – Bardet’s final race:
Soudal Quick-Step Competes in Belgium Once More
Our team will participate in the Heistse Pijl and Brussels Cycling Classic
With the 55th edition of Heistse Pijl set for Saturday, our team—including Ayco Bastiaens, Antoine Huby, Paul Magnier, Andrea Raccagni, Martin Svrcek, Bert Van Lerberghe, and Jordi Warlop—aims to become key players in a race commonly finishing with a bunch sprint.
Meanwhile, on Sunday, the Brussels Cycling Classic will mark the return of Tim Merlier after a well-deserved break following an impressive beginning to his season, where he secured seven wins. Tim will be joined on the start list by Gil Gelders, former Belgian Champion Yves Lampaert, Paul Magnier, Pieter Serry, Dries Van Gestel—returning after an accident in Harelbeke that sidelined him for the spring classics—and Bert Van Lerberghe.
As one of the oldest events globally, the Brussels Cycling Classic tackles a demanding course set around the Muur van Geraardsbergen and Bosberg, which riders will face three times. The latter portion of the race is less strenuous, providing sprinters room to recover after the climbs.
“We head to Heistse Pijl with a well-rounded team. Paul will be our focal point, supported by a strong squad ready to lend their efforts and possibly seize any fading opportunities during the race,” explained Soudal Quick-Step sports director Kevin Hulsmans. “For Brussels, we’ll present a strong, diverse team with Tim as our sprinter. The terrain is selective and may favor multiple rider types; thus, we’ll depend on various members capable of engaging in thrilling moves during the tough sections of the race.”
07.06 Heistse Pijl (BEL) 1.Pro
Riders:
Ayco Bastiaens (BEL)
Antoine Huby (FRA)
Paul Magnier (FRA)
Andrea Raccagni (ITA)
Martin Svrcek (SVK)
Bert Van Lerberghe (BEL)
Jordi Warlop (BEL).
Sports Directors: Kevin Hulsmans (BEL) and Wilfried Peeters (BEL).
Magnier at Heistse Pijl:
New Route and Enhanced Experience for 2025 Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec
On this World Bicycle Day, the organizers of the Grands Prix Cyclistes de Québec et de Montréal (GPCQM) are excited to unveil the redesigned route for the Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec, promising an invigorated experience for both riders and spectators.
The captivating visuals from the GPCQM pro cycling events have showcased Québec City and Montréal internationally since their inception in 2010. The upcoming 14th edition of the Québec City GP will feature a reconfigured course that is greener and slightly shorter, allowing for two additional laps (totaling 216 km) while highlighting new aspects of the provincial capital.
Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec – September 12, 2025
The starting and finishing line will be at the Plains of Abraham, a historically significant site at the core of Québec’s cultural heritage. This natural urban amphitheater will accommodate more fans in a friendly atmosphere, creating an enriched experience between rider appearances.
The extended race duration will foster thrilling race dynamics and cater to a broader range of riders. Expect tension to mount with each lap, culminating in a dramatic finish.
Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal – September 14, 2025
In Montréal, the Avenue du Parc start/finish area, refreshed in 2024, will return with exciting features: a more festive Fan Village and an exclusive Sprint Zone allowing 350 spectators to witness the adrenaline-fueled final sprint just meters from the leaders.
The 2025 route will remain similar to previous editions; however, the Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal will be vibrantly painted with the colors of the UCI Road World Championships, taking place just a week later around the city. Notably, the GPCQM team is also responsible for organizing the UCI Road World Championships in Montréal in 2026.
Experience Cycling on a Grand Scale
On September 12 and 14, Québec City and Montréal will pulse with the excitement of the only two UCI WorldTour races in the Americas. These cannot-miss events will feature the finest 21 cycling teams globally: the 18 WorldTeams plus three ProTeam squads. Additionally, since the onset of the GPCQM, the organizers have consistently included Canada’s national team, offering the next generation of local riders a platform to gauge themselves against this elite competition.
More than races, the GPCQM have evolved into engaging festivals celebrating athleticism and excellence. Admission is complimentary, and the public plays a vital role in energizing the competitors.
This September, Québec City, Montréal, and the world of cycling unite in celebration!
A Distinct Visual Identity for 2025
The official poster design for this year’s GPCQM was assigned to Trevor Yardley-Jones, a Montréal-based illustrator recognized for his vibrant style, combining nostalgia with a contemporary feel. His digital artistry captures the dynamic energy of cycling.
Agency: Torrentiel / Illustrator: Trevor Yardley-Jones / Creative Director: Audrey Schelling / Art Director: Patrick Fleury
“The Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec is much more than just a bike race — it serves as an international spotlight on our city, our expertise, and our love for sports. This new route superbly showcases both our constructed and natural heritage while providing a refreshed experience for our audience. Québec City is proud to host this vital event, which unites us and enhances our presence on the global stage.” — Bruno Marchand, Mayor, Québec City
“The Government of Québec takes pride in supporting the Grands Prix Cyclistes de Québec et de Montréal; these exhilarating events provide visitors with unmatched experiences. They are essential components of Québec’s appeal as a host for major sporting occasions, welcoming both cyclists and cycling enthusiasts worldwide. Kudos to the organizing committee for executing a high-caliber event that showcases our talented entertainment sector.” — Caroline Proulx, Minister of Tourism and Minister Responsible for the Lanaudière Region
“This new race course offers everyone a wonderful opportunity to engage with the GP at the historic Plains of Abraham. Here, sports, nature, and culture will converge, creating a festive and unforgettable experience for attendees.” — Jean Robert, Chair of the Board, National Battlefields Commission
“We’re thrilled to introduce a brand-new route for the Québec City event. This serves as a fresh postcard for the city and a competitive boost. Spectators attending the race are in for an immersive experience that rivals the world’s elite cycling events.” — Joseph Limare, General Manager, GPCQM
Mr. Jean Robert, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Battlefields Commission, Mr. Joseph Limare, Director General of the GPCQM, Mr. Jean-François Gosselin, Member of the Executive Committee responsible for Recreation and Sports in Quebec City, and Mr. Antoine Duchesne, Former Professional Cyclist and Ambassador of the GPCQM: