Within the Soudal Quick-Step cycling team, members, riders, and supporters find themselves amid a period of uncertainty due to ongoing rumors about a potential departure of Remco Evenepoel. The INEOS-Grenadiers team has shown substantial interest in the talented Belgian cyclist, intensifying these tumultuous circumstances.
At the silicone manufacturer Soudal, the primary sponsor of Patrick Lefevere’s team since this season, concerns over Evenepoel’s departure do not seem to be at the forefront. “The rumors are vexing, but we cannot intervene ourselves,” CEO Dirk Coorevits remarked in an interview with the Belgian newspaper De Tijd. “We are sponsors, not owners. We hope for a smooth course.”
Owner Vic Swerts also holds confidence in the team’s stability. “We know Patrick (Lefevere) somewhat. He has everything under control, but yes, everyone trusts their wife until she leaves with someone else.”
Coorevits wouldn’t be overly concerned with Evenepoel’s potential exit. “In that case, Patrick (Lefevere) would simply need to build a team around another leader. You’d have to ask him how he’d do that. We have a long-term vision.”
Juan Ayuso at Soudal Quickstep?
Did Soudal join forces with Soudal Quick-Step with the aim of winning the Tour with Remco Evenepoel? “No, no, no,” both men assert. “Suppose Remco weren’t there, we would have pursued it just the same.”
“It’s good that he’s Belgian. But if a Spaniard like Juan Ayuso were to come aboard, it might even be better for Soudal. Our sponsorship isn’t tied to any one rider. We can only withdraw if there are doping issues.”
