# Belgian Analysts Regret Evenepoel’s Absence from Milan-San Remo: “Pogacar and Van der Poel Wouldn’t Have Dropped Him”
Milan-San Remo, affectionately dubbed ‘La Primavera,’ is one of cycling’s most coveted races and is considered the first of the five ‘Monuments’ of the sport. Spanning over 291 kilometers, it presents a challenging mix of flat stretches, undulating hills, and a grueling finale that tests the riders’ endurance and tactical astuteness. In the lead-up to the 2023 edition of this iconic race, tremendous anticipation buzzed around Remco Evenepoel, who, after his sensational performances in recent seasons, was expected to be a principal contender. However, his absence from the start line was a significant talking point among cycling analysts, fans, and team strategists alike.
The impact of Evenepoel’s withdrawal was felt across the cycling world, but it resonated particularly strongly in Belgium, a country with a rich cycling tradition and an ardent fan base. Experts and analysts lamented his absence, believing that his participation could have shifted the dynamics of the race, particularly against powerhouse riders such as Tadej Pogačar and Mathieu van der Poel. This article delves into the factors leading up to Evenepoel’s decision, the ensuing discussions among Belgian analysts, and the implications for the overall race dynamics.
Context: Remco Evenepoel’s Rise
Before discussing the implications of his absence, it’s essential to appreciate Remco Evenepoel’s meteoric rise in the world of professional cycling. Born on January 25, 2000, in Schepdaal, Belgium, Evenepoel has quickly established himself as one of the sport’s bright lights. His unique blend of brash confidence, superior climbing abilities, and tactical intelligence has seen him secure prestigious victories, including the UCI Road World Championships in 2022 and multiple stages in Grand Tours.
His performances have redefined expectations and created intense excitement, positioning him as a rival to established stars. The anticipation surrounding his participation in a race like Milan-San Remo can be understood not just in terms of his current form but also in light of the broader narrative of his rivalry with figures like Pogačar and van der Poel, both of whom represent the new generation of cycling talents.
The Decision to Withdraw
Evenepoel’s decision to withdraw from Milan-San Remo stemmed from various considerations, primarily tied to his racing schedule and a strategic assessment of his health and fitness levels. Earlier in the season, he had participated in a demanding block of races, and concerns fluctuated around his preparedness for such a long and arduous contest. Given that Milan-San Remo is often the first major race of the season, it requires not just top form but also a specific kind of tactical mindset that only comes with rigorous preparation.
His absence allowed him the flexibility to refocus on upcoming events later in the season, ensuring that he entered those races in peak condition. However, for analysts and fans, the main question became whether he could have contended with the likes of Pogačar and van der Poel had he chosen to race.
The Analysts’ Perspective
The Value of Evenepoel on the World Stage
The Belgian cycling community and analysts were vocal about their disappointment regarding Evenepoel’s absence. For many, his presence would have been more than just a number on the start list; it would have altered the strategic landscape of the race itself. Analysts posited that the dynamics of the final kilometers, particularly sections like the iconic Cipressa and Poggio climbs, would have changed significantly had Evenepoel been present.
*Edwige de Bracke*, a cycling analyst and former professional, expressed regret, stating, “When you have a rider of Evenepoel’s caliber in a race, it changes everything—from tactics to pacing. It’s hard to say definitively, but he wouldn’t have been dropped by Pogačar or Van der Poel. In fact, I’d argue he could have played a critical role in deciding the winner.”
Comparing Tactical Styles
The analytical viewpoint also considered how Evenepoel’s aggressive racing style could have benefitted him on the climbs. Pogačar, typically characterized as a strong climber and strategist, has shown a unique ability to respond to race dynamics effectively. Concerns regarding his sustainability over multiple climbs became focal points during discussions about the potential outcomes of a race featuring both Pogačar and Evenepoel.
Van der Poel, known for his raw power and versatility, presents another challenging factor in the race. Analysts posited that Evenepoel’s ability to sprint at the end of a long race might have even given him an upper hand, creating an exciting race scenario that fans anticipated. Many analysts lamented that the combination of the three riders could have created an exhilarating finale, cementing even further the ‘new golden age of cycling.’
The Consequences of His Absence
An Open Race
Despite Evenepoel’s absence, Milan-San Remo unfolded into an impressive contest showcasing the ongoing rivalry between Pogačar and Van der Poel. With them being the two dominant figures initiating multiple attacks throughout the race, it became clear how Evenepoel’s absence enabled them to operate with a degree of security, knowing they didn’t have a third powerhouse to overshadow their duel.
The potential for a three-way battle that analysts had envisioned did not come to fruition. While it was an engaging race, one cannot help but ponder how Evenepoel’s explosive style and racecraft might have pushed both riders beyond their limits. Cycling analysts noted that this opened the door for a less intense battle, effectively making decision-making simpler for Pogačar and Van der Poel, demonstrating the significant difference Evenepoel could have made.
The Future Landscape of Cycling
Evenepoel’s withdrawal also sparked discussions about the future landscape of professional cycling. Analysts emphasized how the continued absence of top stars could alter the competitive balance in races and championships, particularly as younger talents, like Evenepoel, emerge. They noted that the absence of Pogačar’s and Van der Poel’s key rival would allow them to concentrate resources on internal team dynamics rather than rival strategies, leading to a potential ongoing dominance in the current racing era.
Furthermore, several analysts acknowledged that the goal now rests heavily on Evenepoel to return to peak performance for upcoming races. His absence from such an important race may have cost him valuable experience racing alongside the best, potentially shaping his development trajectory in this intensely competitive environment over the coming seasons.
In retrospect, Remco Evenepoel’s absence from the 2023 Milan-San Remo was felt throughout the cycling community, particularly in Belgium where his fan base holds unwavering aspirational hopes for the young rider. Analysts articulated a consensus that Under even the most challenging conditions, Evenepoel would have surely made an impact, whether in tactical shifts, race dynamics, or overall race excitement.
The ongoing discussions about the “what-ifs” of a race featuring Evenepoel shaped a critical reflection on his growing legacy in the sport. While the race may have concluded without him, the anticipation for his imminent return to action remains sky-high. His next encounters with formidable adversaries like Pogacar and Van der Poel may just redefine cycling’s competitive fabric once again, ensuring that every race features a captivating storyline waiting to unfold. As the cycling world stands at the precipice of what lies ahead, one can only wonder, what would Remco reveal in his next chapter?
