Several riders are hoping to challenge Remco Evenepoel as the cycling season heats up, but the Belgian appears to be in strong form. Among those looking to make a mark are Lennert Van Eetvelt and Antonio Tiberi, though both have faced recent setbacks.
Van Eetvelt, the 2024 winner of the UAE Tour and Tour of Guangxi, saw his 2025 campaign get off to a rough start with a crash on the second stage of the Tour Down Under, forcing him to withdraw from the race. The Lotto-Intermarché rider had been battling injuries that hampered his performance throughout 2025, and it remains to be seen if he will fully recover.
Tiberi recently competed against Evenepoel at the Tour de la Communauté de Valence earlier this month, but was unable to match the Belgian’s pace. He did, however, stay with Evenepoel the longest on the fourth stage, where Evenepoel launched the attack that ultimately secured his overall victory.
Other contenders, including Felix Gall, David Gaudu, Michael Storer, and Tobias Johanessen, have yet to begin their seasons, potentially putting them at a disadvantage in the upcoming time trial.
Ilan Van Wilder, a former teammate of Evenepoel, is expected to lead Soudal Quick-Step. His solo capabilities could allow him to set a strong pace and position himself for a later push. Visma – Lease a bike may also find a surprise contender in 21-year-aged Jorgen Nordhagen, who is seen as a rising star within the team.
All competitors will be aiming to challenge Evenepoel, but his early-season form suggests he will be a formidable opponent.
