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Soudal-QuickStep loses Evenepoel during Tour de France

Remco Evenepoel exits the race after struggling on stage 14, shifting team strategy.

July 19, 2025 at 06:19 PM

'We try to move on' - Soudal-QuickStep react to Remco Evenepoel departure and aim for one more Tour de France win

The team faces uncertainty following Evenepoel's early departure from the race.

Soudal-QuickStep weighs options after Remco Evenepoel exits Tour de France

Soudal-QuickStep's hopes for a successful Tour de France took a hit when Remco Evenepoel abandoned stage 14 of the race. The Belgian, who aimed for a strong general classification performance, faced difficulties on the Col du Tourmalet and opted not to continue. This decision was made to preserve his health and focus on upcoming races after recovering from a previous injury caused by a cycling accident. Team director Tom Steels emphasized the importance of not risking further injury. Without Evenepoel, the team's attention shifts to sprinter Tim Merlier for potential stage wins as they adapt their strategy for the remaining days of the Tour.

Key Takeaways

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Evenepoel's departure shifts Soudal-QuickStep's strategy for the Tour.

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The team now focuses on sprint stages with Tim Merlier.

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Team director urges caution to avoid further injuries for Evenepoel.

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Evenepoel is aiming for future goals after recovering from an accident.

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The team needs to adapt quickly to maintain morale and performance.

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Rider Ilan Van Wilder expresses the team’s disappointment but also resolve.

"It was clear on the road that he didn't feel the best."

Tom Steels reflects on Evenepoel's struggles during stage 14, highlighting the team's disappointment.

"You have to be careful not to go over the limit because otherwise you lose months."

Steels emphasizes the need for caution concerning Evenepoel's health and future races.

"We try to change our strategy in this Tour to make the last week still enjoyable."

Ilan Van Wilder speaks about the team's need to adapt following Evenepoel's exit from the race.

"It's not nice for him, but it's also not nice for the team and his teammates."

Van Wilder expresses the collective sentiment of disappointment felt by the team.

Evenepoel's exit reflects the unpredictable nature of professional cycling, where injuries heavily impact team dynamics and race strategies. Soudal-QuickStep must find resilience in adversity and shift their focus to sprint stages and breakaways. In a sport where every ride counts, adapting quickly can lead to unexpected successes even amidst disappointment. The remaining stages could lead to lessons on teamwork and strategy in the face of challenges.

Highlights

Evenepoel made a tough call but has to aim for bigger goals.
We try to change our strategy and make the last week enjoyable.
It's not nice for him, but it's also not nice for the team.
Even under disappointment, we must look forward.

Soudal-QuickStep faces uncertainty after key rider's exit

The departure of Evenepoel raises questions about the team's chances in the Tour and highlights their reliance on a central figure for strategy and morale.

The coming days will test the team’s adaptability and spirit.

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soudal-quickstep remco-evenepoel tour-de-france cycling sports-news sports cycling

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