“I spent entire days sitting on the couch, and whenever someone called or texted me, I experienced it as them bothering me or interfering in things that didn’t concern them. In response, I started isolating myself. Even replying to a message felt like asking too much. Fortunately, once I was able to go outside again, walk, and exercise, that feeling quickly disappeared.”
Still haunted by the crash
Despite the delayed start, Evenepoel was still able to claim the throne of world’s best timetrialist for himself with dominant victories at both; World Championships in Kigali, and a week later also at the European Championships in Ardeche. In fact, the Belgian went undefeated in a regular time trial throughout the entire 2025 season.
However convincing are his performances in the physically very demanding time trials, Evenepoel admits that consequences of the injury are still affecting him in-race as well as in daily life:
“I still have difficulty lifting heavy things with my right hand. Lifting a suitcase or taking it off the baggage belt at the airport now always has to be done with my left. Even taking nutrition bars or gels out of the back pocket of my jersey is now only possible with my left. Luckily, I’m naturally left-handed,” says Evenepoel.
Fresh start at Red BullAhead of 2026, the 25-year-old made an important decision for his career – to leave Soudal – Quick-Step and strengthen the ambitious Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe. Although Evenepoel still had a year on his contract with the Belgian team, all involved parties were able to find a satisfactory compromise. And thus, Evenepoel already gets to socialize with his new teammates.
“During team building, we had to change a car tire as quickly as possible and successfully complete a blind tasting of Red Bull flavors. My German still needs some work. Fortunately, the main language is English,” laughs Evenepoel.
Remco Evenepoel congratulates Tadej Pogacar on his 5th successive Il Lombardia title
Looking forward to the season ahead, Evenepoel noted that the Amstel Gold Race might be his best shot at defeating Tadej Pogacar. An important quest as Evenepoel has unfinished business with the Slovenian who beat him in both Championship road races as well as at Il Lombardia by a margin.
“But I also believe I should be able to beat Pogacar in Liège, provided I’m in really good shape,” he adds. “In any case, I don’t plan on avoiding Pogacar in 2026. I won’t be adapting my program to his.”