?We Just Don?t Know Anything? – 23-Year-Old Belgian Cyclist From the Soudal Quickstep Team About the Rumored Merger With Jumbo Visma

The world of professional cycling is buzzing with uncertainty. Rumors about the proposed merger between two prominent teams, Jumbo-Visma and Soudal-QuickStep, looms large. Amidst the whirlwind of speculation and rumors, 23-year-old Belgian cycling sensation, Remco Evenepoel, has broken his silence.

In an exclusive interview with Het Laatste Nieuws, Evenepoel shared his frustrations and concerns regarding the merger. He also shed light on the ambiguity surrounding his future. With potential implications for the entire cycling landscape, Evenepoel’s perspective sheds light on the challenges faced by riders amidst such major team transformations.

The Waiting Game – A Cyclist in?the Dark:

Evenepoel’s words echoed the sentiments of many within the Soudal Quickstep team.? “We get zero information and therefore have no answers”. The merger discussions undoubtedly are continuing to unfold behind closed doors. However, Evenepoel emphasized the lack of clarity surrounding his future as a pivotal factor in the merger’s outcome. Recent talks with Jumbo-Visma management have added more intrigue to the situation. The Ineos Grenadiers are also expressing keen interest in securing Evenepoel’s talents to bolster their Grand Tour ambitions.

However, the plot thickens as Patrick Lefevere, the current general manager of Soudal-QuickStep, attempts to salvage a “remnant team” from the aftermath of the merger. This endeavor hinges on retaining the team’s existing WorldTour license. If he manages to do that, he will potentially be binding Evenepoel to his contract. \

Also Read: 5-Time Slovenian Road Cyclist of the Year Parts Ways With Jumbo-Visma to Focus on the 2024 Tour de France

In the midst of this tumultuous saga, Evenepoel acknowledged the governing rules set by the UCI. The teams involved in the merger are obliged to honor rider and staff contracts and adhere to governance guidelines. Crucially, riders within a team undergoing a takeover are only released from their contracts after October 19. This is when the UCI will publish a press release listing the teams that have submitted essential information for the 2024 season.

Navigating the Unknown – A Search for Clarity

Evenepoel is well aware of the official rider transfer window open until December 31, yet the urgency for clarity prevails. “So there is no rush, the winter is still long. But on the other hand, it isn?t,” Evenepoel reflected. The uncertainty looms large, and the desire for answers intensifies as the holiday season approaches.

In the midst of this uncertainty, Evenepoel and his teammates remain determined to channel their energies toward the upcoming Il Lombardia. As they prepare to face formidable competitors like Tadej Pogacar and Primoz Roglic, Evenepoel emphasized the need to focus on their last major goal of the 2023 season, setting aside concerns about the team’s future.

Remco Evenepoel’s candid insights illuminate the uncertainty and challenges faced by professional cyclists amidst major team mergers. As the cycling world eagerly awaits the resolution of this saga, Evenepoel’s determination to focus on the road ahead serves as a testament to the resilience and dedication of athletes in this demanding sport.

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