Remco Evenepoel is on the brink of commencing the 2023 Vuelta a España. The 23-year-old Belgian cyclist, representing the Soudal-Quick-Step team, is determined to defend his title over the course of the 21 stages that will extend from Barcelona to Madrid. During the pre-competition press conference, the current world time trial champion pondered on who has caught his attention the most this season.
Evenepoel drew a comparison among himself, Jonas Vingegaard, Primož Roglič, Tadej Pogačar, and Mathieu van der Poel. “In terms of numbers, I must say Pogačar. What does he have? Ninety wins this season? One hundred fifty?” chuckled the Belgian road champion.
“No, I think it’s sixteen. In terms of results numbers, I always have to say Tadej. But if you look at the quality of victories, I’d say Mathieu. Two monuments, world champion, second in the Tour of Flanders and the E3 Saxo Classic… That’s phenomenal!”
“Now look at Primož… He won every race he started this year. Except for the Vuelta a Burgos, all of them were WorldTour races. When it comes to consistency, you always have to say Roglič.”
“Anyway, Jonas Vingegaard won the Critérium du Dauphiné and the Tour de France. Pogačar has won various types of races everywhere. Everyone is impressive in their own way. But for me, Mathieu is the most impressive this year. After me, of course,” Evenepoel jokes.
