🏆 Biniam Girmay wins the 2024 Tour de France Saitama Criterium 💪 #SaitamaCriterium | @saitamacrite
Meanwhile in the Peloton | Delayed flight may cause issues for European Championship cyclo-cross riders
CyclingSaturday, 02 November 2024 at 17:13
Every day, tons of things happen in the cycling world, and the flow of information almost never stops. Besides the big and important news, there are also many small updates, rumors or facts that come online. For this reason, IDLProCycling.com has created 'Meanwhile in the Peloton', so you don't miss out on the smaller news. We also add in fun posts from social media. Some of these updates should be taken with a grain of salt.
Delayed flight may cause issues for cyclo-cross riders
November 2, 2024 - With the Koppenbergcross on Friday and the European Championships on Sunday, it’s a packed weekend for cyclo-cross riders, who are using Saturday as a travel day for their trip to Spain. Part of the group saw their flight to Porto — located 160 kilometers from Pontevedra — delayed, meaning they will likely miss the official course inspection, according to Het Nieuwsblad. The inspection is scheduled for Saturday after the Mixed Relay, which begins at 3:00 PM local time. Among those on the flight are the Belgian men’s team, as well as Lucinda Brand and Sara Casasola.
Girmay wins Saitama criterium
November 2, 2024 - Biniam Girmay has won the Saitama Criterium in Japan, organized by the Tour de France organization. The Intermarché-Wanty rider beat Primoz Roglic and Mark Cavendish in a 'dying swan' sprint, finishing ahead of both.
Notable transfer: Fee Knaven
November 1, 2024 - Fee Knaven, daughter of former cyclists Servais Knaven and Natascha den Ouden, has announced a remarkable career move. The 17-year-old cyclist will join the development team of UAE Team ADQ starting next season. Currently, she rides for AG Insurance-NXTG U19, Patrick Lefevere's women's under-19 development team. The Dutch talent has signed a two-year contract with the team from the Emirates.
Knaven had a strong season. Her most memorable moment was finishing second in the European junior time trial championship in Hasselt in Belgium. Hhad she crossed the line just one second earlier, she would have been the winner. She believes that the UAE Team ADQ development team is the best place for her growth over the coming years.
🚴♀️ Exciting News! Fee Knaven joins the UAE Development Team on a two-year deal! 🚴♀️ The talented Dutch rider brings fresh energy and ambition to our 2025 roster. Welcome to the team, Fee! 🇳🇱✨ #UAETeamADQ #UAEDevelopmentTeam #UnitedToBeStronger #WeRideToInspire @FKnaven
Evenepoel feels right at home in Morocco
November 1, 2024 - Remco Evenepoel shared a video on Instagram of himself in Morocco. The Belgian from Soudal Quick-Step is wearing a football shirt of the Atlas Lions and is pouring tea in the desert. Evenepoel's wife, Oumi, has her roots in Morocco.
Giro d’Italia postpones route presentation
October 31, 2024 - The routes for the women’s and men’s Giro d’Italia were originally scheduled to be released on Tuesday, November 12, but, for unknown reasons, the RCS has chosen to postpone them to an undetermined date. They have stated they will release more information as soon as it's available.
Various media outlets quickly reported that the Grande Partenza in Albania was on shaky ground and that Sicily might host the new starting point, but RCS General Director Paolo Bellino denied this to Tuttobici. "There are no changes to the route or issues with it. It’s just a technical error on our end. I can’t say more at this time."
The presentation of the 2025 Giro d'Italia and Giro d'Italia Women has been postponed to a date yet to be determined. We will update you regarding the new date as soon as possible 🔜 #GirodItalia #GirodItaliaWomen
Pogacar enjoys the sun instead of Tour route presentation
October 29, 2024 - Team Vingegaard responded, Team Evenepoel responded and Team Roglic responded, but where was Tadej Pogacar and UAE Team Emirates’ reaction to the Tour de France route? The Slovenian was absent, relaxing on a beach somewhere with his fiancée Urska Zigart.
Van der Poel and Ovett run at a brisk pace under the Spanish sun
October 28, 2024 - Although Mathieu van der Poel has wrapped up his season, staying idle isn’t really his style. Together with training partner Freddy Ovett, the Dutchman set out for a solid running session, and at quite a fast pace too. The picture Ovett took, under the Spanish sun, was impressive as well. Keep it up, guys!
Oumi and Evenepoel celebrate time off with Morocco trip
October 24, 2024 - For cyclists, it’s currently vacation time. Remco Evenepoel will soon be traveling to Morocco with his wife, Oumi Rayane. Oumi has Moroccan roots, and she is eagerly looking forward to showing her husband the country. "Soon going back to Marrakech," Oumi wrote in a story on her Instagram. "First time for hubby Remco. So excited and nervous to show him my roots. If you have Marrakech tips, drop them below," she concluded with a call for suggestions.
Ryan Kamp walks away from Belgian crash with few scars
October 19, 2024 – Ryan Kamp has not sustained any fractures from his crash in Ruddervoorde, Belgium. The Dutch cyclocross rider was the first to go down in the terrible crash during the October cyclocross race but luckily escaped with just a scare, as he shared on Instagram. "Just left the hospital, and no major injuries or fractures were found. I hope everyone I took down in my crash is okay. Now it's a matter of getting fit again. I hope to be back soon!" said the unfortunate Kamp.
🚴🇧🇪 | Een verschrikkelijk begin in Ruddervoorde. Een enorme valpartij enkele meters na de start... #Superprestige #Ruddervoorde 📺 Stream veldrijden op HBO Max
Lilian Calmejane retires at 31
October 18, 2024 – Lilian Calmejane has announced his retirement from professional cycling. The Frenchman shared the news on Instagram. "In life, there are chapters filled with more and less passion. The chapter I began at Vendée U at the end of 2013 is coming to an end. After a decade as a professional, it’s time to focus on new athletic challenges," Calmejane wrote in his farewell message. He won twelve races in his career, with the biggest being the eighth stage of the 2017 Tour de France, where he soloed to a brilliant victory at Station des Rousses.
Armstrong receives a visit from old rival Jan Ullrich
October 18, 2024 – They used to be fierce rivals. Jan Ullrich finished second in the Tour de France five times, three of which were right behind Lance Armstrong. The German was the American’s biggest challenger during the infamous US Postal era. Now, years later, Der Kaiser pays a visit to Armstrong in Austin. Together, they pose for a photo, something that can only bring a smile to your face, despite everything.
Now vs then. Honored to host my brother @JanUllrich5 in Austin this week. (📸: @LizKreutz)
Pogacar still on the bike, with a baguette
October 17, 2024 – After a season where you win almost every race you start, you'd think a well-deserved vacation is in order, right? Apparently, that doesn't apply to Tadej Pogacar. The Slovenian world champion appeared once again on a bike in his wife Urška Žigart’s Instagram story, this time with a baguette tucked into his jersey. "Some things never change," Žigart captioned the post, referring to last year when Pogi was also spotted cycling with a baguette.
Van der Poel's bike auctioned off, money goes to fight against cancer
October 17, 2024 – A heartwarming message from Alpecin-Deceuninck. In collaboration with Vive le Vélo, Mathieu van der Poel’s bike was auctioned off for charity. On the 'Stand Up to Cancer Day', the team announced that a staggering 149,000 euros was raised for the foundation 'Kom op tegen Kanker', which supports the fight against cancer. A wonderful amount!
Today, on ‘Stand Up to Cancer Day’, we want to share that €149.000 was raised for @komop_tgkanker (Stand Up to Cancer) through the auction of MVDP’s bike, in collaboration with @Vivelevelo_be during the Tour de France. 💛🚴♂️ And there’s more to come! Soon, the next phase of our…
Intermarché-Wanty bids farewell to Teunissen with kind words
October 16, 2024 – After two seasons, Mike Teunissen is leaving Intermarché-Wanty. While it seemed he would sign with Visma | Lease a Bike, Astana Qazaqstan ultimately became his new team. Teunissen played an important role at Intermarché in the classics and as a lead-out rider. This season, he celebrated significant successes as Biniam Girmay’s lead-out in the Tour de France, where the Eritrean won multiple sprints, with Teunissen playing a crucial part. Intermarché is bidding farewell to Teunissen with a heavy heart. In a message on X, they said goodbye to the rider with kind words.
Thank you, Mike Teunissen 🙏 The perfect teammate, lead-out and companion. Together, we made history of the Tour de France and you became a winner again. We are forever grateful for your contribution to the team's success. We wish you the best for the future 💕
TDT-Unibet signs Dutch U23 time trial champion
October 15, 2024 – TDT-Unibet has announced the signing of Wessel Mouris from Metec-SOLARWATT p/b Mantel. The Dutch Pro-team shared the news on X on Tuesday afternoon. Mouris, who claimed the Dutch time trial championship title in the U23 category this year, will race for the team led by YouTuber Bas Tietema next season. TDT-Unibet, which transitioned from a Continental team to a Pro-team for 2024, achieved four wins this year.
⏱️ We think this man has some serious TIME-ing. Let’s give a warm welcome to the Dutch National TIME Trial Champion (U23), Wessel Mouris, who’s now officially part of TDT-Unibet. 🤩 🚀💨 Get ready for some high-speed action!
Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale bids farewell to Ben O'Connor with stunning video
October 15, 2024 - After four years, Ben O'Connor is parting ways with Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale. The Australian joined the French team in 2021, finishing fourth in the Tour de France that year. After six victories and a recent impressive second-place finish in the Vuelta, the 28-year-old climber is now moving on to Jayco AlUla. His team shared a beautiful farewell on X, stating, "We have all seen you evolve step by step to become one of the top 5 riders in the peloton. We're proud of that." The French team said goodbye to their leader with a heartfelt, "Hey mate, all the best."
Dear Ben, Over and above the exceptional sporting results we have achieved together, all the members of the team have appreciated your personality over these four years. We have all seen you evolve step by step to become one of the top 5 riders in the peloton. We're proud of…
Sepp Kuss welcomes daughter Martina
October 14, 2024 - After Tom Dumoulin’s recent journey into fatherhood, his former teammate Sepp Kuss shared wonderful news on Monday. His wife, Noemi Ferré, gave birth to a daughter on October 9, whom the couple has named Martina. The Visma | Lease a Bike climber shared a few photos on Instagram. Congratulations, Sepp and Noemi!
Verdict in Rebellin case: Driver sentenced to four years in prison
October 14 - In Italy, the truck driver who hit Davide Rebellin in the fall of 2022 has been sentenced to four years in prison, so the Dutch De Telegraaf reported Monday afternoon. The driver was charged with manslaughter and failing to provide assistance. He fled the scene after the accident, in which Rebellin lost his life. The 51-year-old Italian cyclist had just retired from his career. The sentence is slightly lower than initially proposed: four years instead of five.
Jakob Fuglsang extends contract by a year, plans to retire in 2025
October 14 - Jakob Fuglsang will continue as a professional cyclist for one more year. The Dane has extended his contract and impressed as a key support rider with his experience, particularly assisting riders like Derek Gee. "I feel like I’ve found myself again this season and proven that I still have what it takes to be racing at this level in the biggest races on the calendar," said the Dane on the website of his team, Israel-Premier Tech. See you next year, Jakob!
Telling tweet from Kwiatkowski seems to address numerous rumors
October 12 - There’s certainly quite a bit of turmoil at INEOS Grenadiers these days... Tom Pidcock appears to be on a collision course with the team and didn’t get to start in Lombardy. In recent days, there have been rumors about a potential move to Q36.5 Pro Cycling, and Michal Kwiatkowski, Pidcock's teammate, was also rumored to be leaving with a trainer. However, that last part now seems unlikely, given a telling tweet from the Polish rider on Saturday afternoon... He appears to be staying with INEOS.
De Marchi, Durbridge and Mezgec extend contracts with Jayco AlUla
October 11 - Excellent news for the continuity at Jayco AlUla. The Australian team has secured three seasoned veterans for a longer term: Luke Durbridge, Luka Mezgec and Alessandro De Marchi. The Australian is an experienced road captain, the Slovenian is a lead-out specialist for sprints, and the Italian De Marchi has long been known as a dangerous stage hunter. According to a press release, De Marchi has extended his contract for one year, while the other two have signed on for two years.
Mark Cavendish to end 2024 in Singapore
October 10, 2024 - Mark Cavendish may be preparing for his very last race in Singapore. The organizers of the Tour de France, who also manage the Prudential Singapore Criterium on November 10, have announced the participation of the British sprinting legend. They used phrases like "last dance", hinting that this might be Cav’s final race as a professional cyclist. Other big names, including Chris Froome and Primoz Roglic, will also be racing. Cavendish secured his coveted 35th stage win during the most recent Tour de France.
The last dance for Cav’🕺 Alongside Tour legends as Froome, Roglic and Nibali, the third edition of the Tour de France Prudential Singapore Criterium will taste like a final challenge for Mark Cavendish. See you on November 10! 🙌 Une dernière danse pour Cav’ 🕺 Aux côtés de…
Dumoulin welcomes baby boy Oscar
Tom Dumoulin has shared wonderful news: the former time trial world champion and Giro d'Italia winner became a father on Tuesday to his son, Oscar. Dumoulin announced on Instagram that both the baby and his girlfriend, Maxime Nieman, are doing well. "Welcome, dear Oscar," he wrote alongside the happy news. Congratulations to Tom and Maxime!
Chloé Dygert leaves Simac Ladies Tour after suspected collision with door
October 9, 2024 - It was a striking scene on Wednesday morning ahead of the second stage of the Simac Ladies Tour. Zoë Backstedt, who claimed the leader's jersey in the opening time trial, started with only one Canyon//SRAM Racing teammate. Soraya Paladin and Maike van der Duin were sidelined due to illness, while Chloé Dygert broke her nose in what is reported to be a collision with a door (!). Wednesday afternoon brought even more misfortune for the German team: Backstedt’s only remaining teammate, Alex Morrice, did not finish in Assen. This leaves the leader to face the rest of the Dutch stage race on her own.
#SLT2024 DNS Paladin, vd Duin both ill and Dygert with an small onjury after bumping into a door. @WMNcycling down to just one helper for Backstedt with Morrice.
Ballerstedt enlists his dog’s help with carb intake
October 9, 2024 - 120 grams of carbohydrates per hour: that’s how much Tadej Pogacar consumes during a tough stage. However, the Slovenian recently mentioned that it takes time for the body to adjust. Maurice Ballerstedt of Alpecin-Deceuninck has come up with a creative solution. The German cyclist took his dog along on his back during a training ride, with the stylishly dressed canine helping to take in the necessary carbs. "When you can’t eat 120 grams of carbs per hour alone," Ballerstedt humorously captioned.
Cavendish and Wiggins team up for charity ride
October 8, 2024 - British cycling icons Mark Cavendish and Bradley Wiggins will ride together on October 19 in the Gran Fondo Hincapie. The bike ride, held in Greenville, South Carolina, aims to raise funds for those affected by the recent devastating Hurricane Helene in the neighboring state of North Carolina. The last time Wiggins and Cavendish rode together was in the Six Days of Ghent, where they also won the World Championship in the Madison event that year. With former pro Jan Ullrich also participating, the Gran Fondo is sure to see a boost in donations!
Nino Schurter not ready to stop and extends mountain biking career
October 8, 2024 - Swiss mountain biker Nino Schurter will continue his career for another year, as the ten-time world champion announced in a video on Instagram. "Today, I want to share my future plans with you," begins the Rio 2016 Olympic champion. "In 2004, I raced my first World Cup as a pro, and last Sunday marked the end of my twentieth World Cup season. I want to thank everyone for the friendships, the amazing adventures, and the great battles on the bike," he says, seemingly signaling the end. But then... "These are also the reasons I’m not done with mountain biking. I still enjoy it too much, and on good days, I’m still able to compete," Schurter says with a smile.
Robert Gesink to compete in Chilean gravel stage race
October 7, 2024 - After the final time trial of this year’s Vuelta a España, Robert Gesink bid farewell to professional cycling. However, the 38-year-old former Visma | Lease a Bike rider isn’t quite finished yet. From December 4 to 7, he will compete in a four-day gravel race in Chile, covering a total of 440 kilometers with an impressive 5,500 meters of elevation gain. Retirement from cycling? Not just yet!
Geschke receives guard of honor after final professional race
October 4, 2024 - Simon Geschke ended his career on home soil. The 38-year-old German rode his final professional kilometers in the Münsterland Giro, bringing a close to a distinguished career, with a stage win in the 2015 Tour de France as his standout achievement. Geschke was also a crucial support rider for Tom Dumoulin, helping the bearded German secure the overall victory in the 2017 Giro d'Italia. It was reason enough for the peloton to lift their front wheels in the air, giving the Cofidis rider a well-deserved send-off.
Farewell to a legend 👏 @simongeschke was given a guard of honour at Sparkassen Münsterland Giro, his final race as a professional. Watch the highlights: goto.roadcode.cc/rcx _________ 🇩🇪 #muensterlandgiro
Kasper Asgreen withdraws from Germany due to appendicitis
October 3, 2024 - Bad news for Kasper Asgreen. The Danish Soudal Quick-Step rider was scheduled to participate in the Münsterland Giro but fell ill overnight from Wednesday to Thursday. He became so unwell that he was taken to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with appendicitis, requiring surgery. A disappointing setback for the Dane. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Kasper!
Kasper Asgreen will not take to the start of the Münsterland Giro today. After becoming ill overnight, he was taken to hospital, where it was revealed he has appendicitis, which will require an operation. We wish @k_asgreen a full and speedy recovery!
Defending champion Niewiadoma withdraws from Gravel World Championships
October 2, 2024 - Kasia Niewiadoma will not defend her world title at the Gravel World Championships this Saturday. The Tour de France Femmes winner has decided to end her season due to fatigue. In the recent World Championships road race, the Polish rider was unable to make an impact, despite the course suiting her well. "After a very intense year, I have decided to wrap up my cycling season and won’t be defending my rainbow jersey," she announced on her team’s social media. "I now want to focus on recovery, spending time with loved ones, and celebrating everything that happened this year."
“After such an intense year, I decided to close my 2024 season and skip defending my 🌈 title. I want to focus on recovery, time spent with my close ones, and celebrating everything that happened this year," @KNiewiadoma won't be at Gravel Worlds. wmncycling.com/2024-gravel-wo…
Pogacar trains with Carlos Sainz, the day after his world title win
October 2, 2024 - Tadej Pogacar went for a training ride on Tuesday, though not yet in his rainbow jersey. The newly crowned world champion was joined by his fiancée, Urska Zigart, and Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz. The group enjoyed a tasty focaccia around Monaco, or as it’s affectionately known there: a "Pogaccia".
Wout van Aert’s award-winning bike auctioned off for a large sum
October 1, 2024 - The Cervélo R5 that Wout van Aert rode to claim the green jersey in the 2022 Tour de France has recently found a new home. This piece of cycling history, complete with Van Aert’s personal signature from 2023, was initially valued by experts at 20,000-25,000 euros.
However, Van Aert’s name proved even more valuable, as the Cervélo sold for a remarkable 38,000 euros! And the best part? The proceeds will go to Bremmen, an organization that hosts camps for children and youth, focusing on building resilience, self-reliance and a healthy lifestyle. Once again, the bike has become a prize-winner!
TDT-Unibet announces French recruit Verschuren with a puzzle
September 30, 2024 - Known for their playful videos, TDT-Unibet has done it again. The Dutch pro-continental team, owned by YouTuber Bas Tietema and his friends Josse Wester and Devin van der Wiel, challenged fans to guess their new recruit through a puzzle. With a bit of puzzling and cycling knowledge, the answer is clear: Killian Verschuren. The 21-year-old Frenchman was last year’s national amateur champion (defeating future teammate Baptiste Huyet) and won a stage in this year’s Alpes Isère Tour with Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale’s development team, finishing fourth overall in the race.
In Dutch we say: “no Avondetappe, without a rebus…” 🧩 ✍️ #….
Verbrugghe leaves Israel-Premier Tech effective immediately
September 28, 2024 - Rik Verbrugghe will be leaving Israel-Premier Tech with immediate effect. The Belgian coach, who has been with the Israeli team for four years, stated in the press release that he enjoyed his time with the team. "It was a great period. I will announce my next plans shortly." Could the 50-year-old Flemish coach perhaps be aiming for the role of national coach?
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Eising and Wiebes crowned champions at the Dutch National Gravel Championships
September 28, 2024 - Tijmen Eising and Lorena Wiebes have been crowned the new Dutch gravel champions. In and around Epe, Eising defeated Lars Loohuis (the defending champion) and Luke Verburg, who finished second and third, respectively. In the women’s race, Femke Markus took silver, and Amber Kraak claimed bronze.
TDT-Unibet signs young Italian Meris
September 27, 2024 - TDT-Unibet has secured a new addition to the team. The 23-year-old Sergio Meris is joining the team of YouTuber Bas Tietema. The young Italian is a promising talent. Last year, the rider from the continental Team MBH Bank Colpack Ballan won a stage in the prestigious Giro della Valle d'Aosta and achieved several top finishes in the U23 circuit. The transfer was officially announced with a humorous post on X: the true pizza expert will come in handy when the Tour de Tietema crew hands out pizzas again on the Champs-Elysées...
👋 Ciao, Sergio! We’re excited to welcome our new Italian rider and pizza expert Sergio Meris! 🇮🇹🍕 😍 Get ready for ‘la dolce vita’ and some good racing (and pizzas 🫣) for the next years! ✍️ #Sergio2026
UCI officially implements World Championship changes starting in 2025
September 27, 2024 - The international cycling union (UCI) has announced in a press release that new rules regarding participation in the U23 races will take effect from the 2025 World Championships. Riders under 23 years old with a contract with a professional team (WorldTour or ProTeam) will be excluded from competing in U23 events. However, if a rider is part of a development team of a WorldTeam or ProTeam, they will still be eligible to participate in the U23 category. The inclusion of "or she" is important because, starting in 2025, U23 races for women will be held for the first time. Along with the official confirmation from the UCI that a women's edition of Milan-Sanremo will be added to the calendar, this is great news for the women's peloton!
Pogacar dazzles with special World Championship bike by Colnago
September 27, 2024 - If you win both the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France in the same year, you have every right to show it off, right? This Sunday, at the World Championships, Tadej Pogacar will ride a special edition of the Colnago V4Rs, named "Tadej". The bike has a white base, accented with pink and yellow shades, referencing his victories in the Giro and Tour. This bike also honors his other major wins in his career.
Women will have their own version of Milan-Sanremo in 2025
September 25, 2024 - The news is out! Women will also race Milan-Sanremo in 2025, although the event will not immediately be part of the Women's WorldTour. According to RCS, that is the ambition for the coming years. La Primavera will be organized on the same day for both women and men, but the exact route for the women's race still needs to be determined. Originally, the Trofeo Binda was scheduled for March 22, but it is likely to be moved to Sunday, March 16.
A #BlaBlaBike l'annuncio di Paolo #Bellino a Giulia De Maio: «#RCSSport punta sempre di più sulle donne, nel 2025 nascerà la #MilanoSanremo femminile!» tuttobiciweb.it/article/172712…
More bad luck for Remco Evenepoel, who this time has a flat tire
September 23, 2024 - Remco Evenepoel became the time trial world champion a day earlier despite some bad luck – his chain came off just before the start and his power meter wasn't working – but the freshly crowned world champion is apparently still unlucky. This Monday, Evenepoel appears in the vlog of compatriot Victor Campenaerts, where we see that Remco's golden bike has a flat tire. The world champion also had a flat during the final phase of the Olympic road race, but was able to rush to the gold medal with a spare bike. The two Belgians can now, of course, laugh about it during their training ride. "Golden bike but still a flat tire," jokes the cheerful Vocsnor.
Thomas De Gendt's career officially ends
September 23, 2024 - The career of Thomas De Gendt is officially over. The 37-year-old Belgian rode his last race as a professional cyclist on Sunday in Paris-Chauny, he announced via a message on X. "All I have worked for since I was ten is now just a memory," writes the attacker, who concludes with optimistic words. "But like always, the end of one thing is the beginning of something new. Looking forward to discovering new challenges."
And just like that a career of 16 years has finished. All i have worked for since i was 10 is now just a memory. Paris-Chauny was my last race as a Pro. But like always, the end of one thing is the beginning of something new. Looking forward to discover new challenges.
This is how we'll recognize Tim Merlier next year
September 20, 2024 - New jerseys are always fun, especially when they're worn with a beaming smile. Normally, we see most national champions' jerseys in June, but after his European Championship victory, it's now Tim Merlier's turn. Soudal-Quick Step has really gone all out, which also means we'll be spotting the outgoing champion Christophe Laporte in the yellow-black of Visma | Lease a Bike once again.
First outing as European Champion 🇪🇺 Photo: @BeelWout
Jhonatan Narváez has to miss World Championships due to COVID-19
September 19, 2024 - He could have played a major role on the challenging course, but Jhonatan Narváez was not selected for the Ecuadorian team. Now we learn why: Narváez has not recovered in time from a COVID-19 infection. Consequently, Richard Carapaz is the sole true leader of the team in Zürich. This is some quite spicy news: Carapaz was actually passed over for the Olympics because Narváez was better placed in the UCI rankings. The EF Education-EasyPost rider was angry about that at the time, being the defending champion.
Karlijn Swinkels wins GP Wallonia
September 18, 2024 - Karlijn Swinkels (UAE) won the women's GP Wallonia in Namur on Wednesday. The Dutch rider took the lead just before the final corner and then held off Elisa Longo Borghini (Lidl-Trek) with a long sprint. Amber Kraak and Anouska Koster also finished in the top five.
🚴🇧🇪 | Wat een mooie overwinning voor Karlijn Swinkels! Ze sprint na de klim richting de citadel van Namen naar de winst op de finishstrook! 🙌🇳🇱 #GrandPrixdeWallonie 📺 Stream koers op HBO Max
Fabio Jakobsen makes comeback after crash
September 18, 2024 - Fabio Jakobsen will return to racing this Friday at the Championship of Flanders in the Belgian Koolskamp. The Dutchman dropped out of the Renewi Tour three weeks ago following a crash, but he will make his return in the sprinters' race par excellence. He won the race in 2022, but this season the competition is strong again, including Jonathan Milan, Jasper Philipsen and the newly crowned European champion Tim Merlier.
"The Championship of Flanders will definitely be a race decided by the sprinters. It's a fairly straightforward circuit, without anything that can really influence the race. We plan to work with the sprint group and want to get Fabio in the best position to sprint for a good result," said coach Callum Ferguson. Jakobsen will be supported by Tobias Lund Andresen, Timo Roosen, Bram Welten and Julius van den Berg.
Thibau Nys going on an Eminem tour?
September 16, 2024 - Hey, who do we have here? Donning a blonde haircut, Thibau Nys suddenly slid into our Instagram stories. The Belgian Lidl-Trek rider is enjoying a few weeks off before he turns his attention to the cyclo-cross winter. With a helmet on, it might not be so noticeable, but Nys's blonde hair will undoubtedly be a topic of conversation in Belgium!
Wout van Aert celebrates his 30th birthday
September 16, 2024 - We've been waiting all day for it, but did not get to see a photo of Wout van Aert with a cake and thirty candles. His wife Sarah did congratulate him with a message shared via the social channels of the Visma | Lease a Bike Belgian.
TDT-Unibet Cycling Team gives glimpse into service course
September 13, 2024 - TDT Unibet Cycling Team has provided a glimpse into their new, pimped-out service course in a new video on YouTube – but on a channel called Inside TDT. In the twelve-minute video, which can be seen as a kind of behind-the-scenes, the headquarters undergoes a major makeover. Worth watching!
🎨 Onze droom in beeld op Service Course! Samen met @gammanl hebben we ons verhaal gevangen in een muurschildering. Voor het artistieke deel gaan alle credits naar artiest Jasper. Maar vlak onze inbreng niet uit! 😝 Wij waren zelf verantwoordelijk voor het fixen van de verf en…
Fabio Jakobsen talks to students about falling and getting back up
September 11, 2024 - DSM-Firmenich PostNL rider Fabio Jakobsen spoke to students at De Catamaran school in Spijkenisse, the Netherlands, on Tuesday afternoon about the ups and downs in life, reports the Dutch outlet Algemeen Dagblad. "You can fall, but you also get back up. Never give up," advised the sprinter, who, of course, knows better than anyone what it's like to have to come from far. "It's always fun to talk about my life as a cyclist and to share with the kids how we work together as a team and how important resilience is in cycling."
Sven Vanthourenhout to step down as national coach after the Road Cycling World Championships
September 9, 2024 - Sven Vanthourenhout will step down as the coach of the Belgian national team after the Road Cycling World Championships in Zürich (the final races will be held on Sunday, September 29). This was announced by Belgian Cycling in a brief press release on their website. "Belgian Cycling expressly wants to thank Sven Vanthourenhout, one of the most successful coaches in the history of the federation, for his commitment over the past years," the press release says. "We wish Sven all the best in the further development of his sports career." Further explanation about the reasons for the decision will be provided on September 10, during the announcement of the World Championships team selection.
Remco Evenepoel to don new, unique Olympic jersey in Tour of Britain
September 3, 2024 - Remco Evenepoel is making his comeback in the peloton this Tuesday, in the Tour of Britain. And the peloton has taken notice! The Belgian can be recognized by a new kit, dedicated to the double Olympic title that Evenepoel won just over a month ago. His sleeves now feature a significant gold tint. The kit is special, but approved by the UCI. Looks great, Remco!
New kit, new details, new energy.🥇🚀🐺💙⚡
Six unique racing bikes stolen from the Shimano Experience Center in the Netherlands
August 31, 2024 - Six unique bikes have been stolen from the Shimano Experience Center in Valkenburg, the Netherlands, reports WielerFlits. One of the bikes is the Canyon Aeroad in rainbow colors. World champion Mathieu van der Poel rode this machine in this year's Liège-Bastogne-Liège. Also, old, special bikes belonging to Peter Sagan, Egan Bernal and Fabio Jakobsen are reported to have been stolen.
Pieterse just misses out on medals at the MTB World Championships
August 30, 2024 - On Friday, the Short Track races at the Mountain Biking World Championships in Andorra were held. In the men's event, Victor Koretzky took the victory, while Evie Richards won the women's race. Puck Pieterse narrowly missed out on the medals, finishing fourth, right behind Jenny Rissveds and Pauline Ferrand-Prévot.
Thibau Nys moves out of parent's nest
August 30, 2024 - Thibau Nys is moving in with his partner! The young all-rounder appeared on the show Café Congé this week, where he announced the news. The Belgian Nys has been with his Dutch girlfriend Anna for four years. "I have been looking forward to it. Of course, I had everything I could dream of and needed at home, but I've reached an age and stage in my career where living separately will provide a lot of structure and also peace," he said maturely.
This means that Sven Nys is waving goodbye to his son. He will live in Baal. "His parents and their partners immediately welcomed me with open arms. We usually sleep at his dad Sven's place, and have dinner at his mom Isabelle's. But now we are really looking forward to our own little place," said Anna.
Il Lombardia 2024
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Meanwhile in the peloton | Unibet Tietema Rockets signs Italian climber Carboni
Performances in other disciplines should count for road rankings too, says UCI: "We want to change that"
Vingegaard responds cryptically to rumors: "I read somewhere that I might have to ride the Giro"
Visma | Lease a Bike will aim for grand tour podiums with Jorgenson: "It’s not impossible"
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French question credibility Pogacar again, TotalEnergies boss also lashes out at rich teams
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Vingegaard responds cryptically to rumors: "I read somewhere that I might have to ride the Giro"
Latest Comments
- Van Aert is really handsome. He can influence me all day! Ditto for Philipsen. Why do you think many of us love cycling?: to see heroic attempts at climbing mountains at high altitudes or to watch speedsters sprint for the finish line or to watch a human being ride at break neck speed down a tricky descent? No, it's all about their lean physiques and muscular legs. (apologies for objectifying these dedicated and amazing athletes).BarwonHeadsUp25-10-2024
- It is unfortunate that the author can't feel the joy that Pogacar brings to the sport and his fans who are legion and I for one feel lucky to have watched such a memorable performance and historic season From the Strada until yesterday with multiple wins in stages in both tours and beyond dominance in the World's. He is proud to wear the Rainbow stripes, shows his leadership to protect his fellows and is as courteous and sportsman-like as the sport allows. He goes early to not have to respond to each attack as all the rest would make him do it. Any racer who could would do the same. Don't "grow tired" of greatness as it is always fleeting.ccrider13-10-2024
- What load of rubbish. Pog is likely a once in a generation cyclist, the like of which hasn't been seen since 'the Cannibal '. How many people were complaining that Merckx was making racing predictable? I remember this year's World RR as one of the most exciting I've watched. Mainly BECAUSE Pog was the favourite and launched what everyone thought (Pog included) was a suicidal attack with 80km to go. For the next 2 hours, I was on the edge of my seat thinking "this is too much, even for Pog". Maybe Zonnefeld prefers the snooze-fest that is a bunch sprint? Like most people I know, I can't watch two hours of the bunch riding very fast... I wait for the final 5km and watch just the sprint. In any event, most races are won from a sprint or lone break. What difference does it make who makes the lone break? Ultimately, the other contenders will have to figure out a way to beat Pog. Even if that means collaboration between teams. It's going to be an exciting few seasons, until the next Pog arrives on the scene. If this is boring, heaven knows what exciting looks like!Michael513-10-2024
- This is not a gravel race. UCI fail, from the surface they are on to team tactics. In what country was the first "gravel race" in what country is the most popular gravel race? Go with the race model that created the discipline.
Barnes127411-10-2024 - And don't forget he has now won 4 of the big 10 races (Grand tours, Monuments and WC/OG) in one year with a chance to make that 5. (5 has only been done once before)Joostmehrtens05-10-2024