“Bonuses will play an vital role here,” Remco Evenepoel noted. He knows this well, having won the event in 2023. “In the final climb, during the third stage but likewise the last, I was able to accept advantage of them.”
Time Trial Offers Opportunity to Gain Ground
Evenepoel has a chance to quickly develop up a slight deficit in Tuesday’s 12-kilometer time trial. The race organizers shortened Monday’s stage by 26 kilometers due to weather conditions, but Evenepoel is hoping for a normal race. “Many races have been shortened or canceled in recent days due to gusts, so I hope we can race normally,” said the Belgian, who hopes a repeat of the Tour de Valence scenario – where the time trial was held on traditional bikes and had no impact on the general classification – won’t occur.
Evenepoel appears unfazed by a somewhat cautious start to the UAE Tour and is determined to make a significant impact in the discipline where he is the world champion. “This first stage doesn’t change anything about my tactics and mindset for the time trial. This flat course should work in my favor. I hope to win and take enough time to wear the leader’s jersey. Del Toro will also be very motivated, and we know that being in the lead of the general classification can deliver you wings.”
Mexican rider Del Toro confirmed his intentions: “I know Evenepoel will be very motivated, but I will be ready to mark him closely.” The competition between the two riders is now officially underway.
