In a recent interview conducted in Andorra for the Lanterne Rouge podcast, Remco Evenepoel didn’t shy away from voicing his frustration regarding the support he receives from his team, Soudal Quick-Step. Evenepoel inadvertently confirmed that he will continue with the Soudal Quick-Step squad for the upcoming season, while also calling for stronger reinforcements within the team. He disclosed that the team has already secured the signing of a “big name,” referring to Mikel Landa, whom he praises highly.
“I’m really happy that he’s coming. There were more names, big names. Also Sivakov and De Plus, yes. It didn’t work out, so at that time, I was a bit disappointed. With these two, you can go to war. I thought we missed our chance.”
The new world time trial champion insists that Landa is exceptional but desires more robust support before the 2024 season:
“Landa is a rider who knows how to win big tours with his team. He’s 33 now. I don’t think he’s too old. He’s a good rider who brings a lot of experience to a young team. I think it’s the best move Patrick (Lefevere, Soudal Quick-Step manager) could have made this year. But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t expecting another rider, one just below Landa’s level. A rider somewhere between the level of Ilan (Van Wilder) and Cattaneo (Mattia). But it’s hard to find a rider in that category. They are expensive.”
Watch the full interview for more insights: