Evenepoel joins Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe

Remco Evenepoel moves to Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe, raising tensions around teammate Florian Lipowitz.

Remco Evenepoel joins Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe with implications for Florian Lipowitz

Olympic cycling champion Remco Evenepoel will join the German team Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe for the 2026 season, ending speculation about his future. The team announced the signing, expressing confidence in Evenepoel's talents and ambition. Team manager Ralph Denk underscored Evenepoel's impressive mental strength and dedication, stating, "Remco is not just a rider; he aims to make an impact." Evenepoel's previous contract with Soudal Quick-Step remained until late 2026, meaning a significant transfer fee is expected. As a top earner, the 25-year-old is set to be a key figure at Red Bull. He comes off a successful Olympic run, winning gold in both road racing and time trials, alongside being a past Vuelta champion and third place finisher in the Tour de France. The arrival of Evenepoel coincides with the new role of Sven Vanthourenhout, a former Belgian national coach, who is closely associated with the star. This paves the way for Evenepoel to influence team dynamics, possibly impacting rider Florian Lipowitz. Will they work collaboratively or vie for dominance within the team?

Evenepoel’s move to Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe signals more than mere team change; it foreshadows potential challenges for Lipowitz. With a formidable competitor by his side, the team structure may shift significantly. The focus now shifts towards how Lipowitz adapts to sharing space with an athlete known for his assertive personality and relentless ambition. Speculation around team dynamics is likely to build as their shared goals may also lead to internal tension. The introduction of Evenepoel could redefine leadership roles within the squad, shaping future races and overall strategy.

Highlights

As the 2026 season approaches, the cycling world will watch closely how these changes unfold.