The apparent merger between Jumbo-Visma and Soudal Quick-Step seems to be taking shape. According to Johan Bruyneel, Richard Plugge is showing interest in the sponsor Soudal and the cyclist Remco Evenepoel. Bruyneel suggests on the podcast “The Move” that it is likely Evenepoel will move to the newly formed team, now called ‘Visma-Soudal.’
“The fact that Richard Plugge released a cyclist like Roglic leads me to believe that Remco Evenepoel is going to the new ‘Visma-Soudal’ team. If Soudal moves to the new team, Patrick Lefevere won’t have the money to keep Evenepoel.”
“In my opinion, the bicycle manufacturer Specialized plays a crucial role when it comes to Evenepoel. Evenepoel signed a big personal contract with them. So, I think Specialized will join Plugge’s team, and Cervélo will have to make way.”
“Visma-Soudal is the way for Remco Evenepoel. From a sporting point of view, this is the ideal step for Evenepoel. His father previously said that Evenepoel needs a better environment to achieve his goals. Jumbo-Visma is that environment for him. The reference in today’s cycling. Especially with Roglic’s departure, Evenepoel will have all the opportunities.”
“As for the Tour de France, I think if Remco is realistic, he realizes that he cannot compete for the overall victory with Vingegaard and Pogacar yet. But in all the other races, he would be the man. With the best science and logistics behind it.”