Future-oriented pact kept Evenepoel at Soudal-Quick Step: "We want to keep those promises"

A good conversation was necessary, as noted. "A discussion where issues were addressed, clarified, and resolved, including between Lefevere and his right-hand man, COO Jurgen Foré. This brought everyone closer together and firmly united all parties." The message is clear: WorldTour teams need not contact Patrick Lefevere before the end of 2026.

It’s reported that 'PatLef' is willing to make an even greater effort for his star leader in the remaining two years of the contract, also to keep sponsors satisfied. "The team commits to going the extra mile to support Evenepoel as best as possible in achieving his goals, within budgetary limits. This includes logistical, organizational, knowledge, and expertise support, as well as performance improvements."

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At the Tour de France route presentation on Tuesday, Lefevere confirmed the statements from the news report. He even pulled Frederik Broché away from the Belgian cycling federation, leaving departing national coach Sven Vanthourenhout empty-handed after the big boss at Quick Step declined his request. "We've made certain promises to strengthen the team—not only in terms of riders but also the support team. We want to keep those promises."

This is all aimed at achieving even better performances from Evenepoel, who outlined a clear goal with Lefevere a few years ago: "Our initial goal, which many people have forgotten, was to get Remco at his absolute best for the Tour in 2025. After what he already accomplished in 2024, it’s safe to say we're a year ahead of schedule. In both his mind and ours, there is the belief that he can still make progress and perform even better than he has so far. So we’re fully committed to achieving that together."