Alpecin-Deceuninck Heads to Vuelta a España Without Van der Poel: Belgian WorldTour Team Assembles Eight Riders for the Challenge
The Vuelta a España, one of cycling’s most prestigious Grand Tours, is just around the corner, and teams from around the world are finalizing their rosters. Among them, Alpecin-Deceuninck, the Belgian WorldTour team, is drawing significant attention for its decision to head into the race without their star rider, Mathieu van der Poel. Instead, the team has selected a robust lineup of eight riders who are set to tackle the grueling three-week journey across Spain.
Mathieu van der Poel, a name synonymous with explosive power and versatility, has been a cornerstone of Alpecin-Deceuninck’s success across various cycling disciplines. His absence from the Vuelta is noteworthy, as the Dutch rider has been a headline figure in many major races, including his recent triumph at the World Championships. However, the decision to exclude him from the Vuelta squad is a calculated one. Van der Poel has had an intense racing calendar, including his commitments to both road and cyclo-cross events, as well as mountain biking. The team, therefore, has chosen to rest him, focusing on his long-term performance and preparing him for future challenges.
Without Van der Poel, the team’s dynamics will undoubtedly shift, but this also presents an opportunity for other riders to step up and shine on one of cycling’s biggest stages.
Alpecin-Deceuninck’s roster for the Vuelta a España is a blend of experience and youthful ambition. The eight riders selected to represent the team bring a mix of strengths that could see them contend for stage wins and support the team in the overall classification. Here’s a closer look at the riders who will be donning the Alpecin-Deceuninck jersey:
Philipsen, one of the top sprinters in the peloton, will be a key figure for Alpecin-Deceuninck at the Vuelta. Known for his blistering speed and tactical acumen in the final kilometers, Philipsen will be targeting the flatter stages, where he can unleash his powerful sprint. With multiple Grand Tour stage wins under his belt, Philipsen will be eager to add more to his tally in Spain.
The Australian climber has been a revelation in recent seasons, particularly with his performances in the mountains. Vine’s climbing prowess will be crucial in the Vuelta’s many mountainous stages, where he could be a contender for stage wins or even a high position in the general classification. His ability to handle steep gradients and long ascents makes him a rider to watch.
Dillier brings experience and versatility to the team. The Swiss rider is known for his strength in breakaways and his ability to support team leaders in various terrains. Dillier’s role will likely involve both protecting the team’s GC ambitions and seeking opportunities to go on the attack in the medium mountain stages.
Groves, another sprinter in the lineup, will complement Philipsen in the flatter stages. The Australian rider has shown his sprinting capabilities in several high-profile races, and his inclusion in the Vuelta squad suggests that Alpecin-Deceuninck is serious about contesting multiple sprint finishes.
A solid all-rounder, Meurisse can handle a variety of terrains, making him an invaluable team player. His consistency in stage races and ability to perform well in hilly stages will provide Alpecin-Deceuninck with tactical options throughout the Vuelta.
Vermeersch, a rider with a strong background in cyclo-cross, has successfully transitioned to road racing. His endurance and tenacity make him a useful asset in breakaways and difficult stages. Vermeersch’s role may also include supporting his teammates in the tougher mountain stages.
The young Australian rider is known for his aggressive style and potential in one-day races. Stannard’s inclusion in the Vuelta squad could see him given the freedom to chase stage wins on the rolling stages or to act as a support rider in the mountains.
Janssens, another Belgian rider, adds depth to the team’s roster. Known for his ability to grind out long days in the saddle, Janssens will be expected to support the team in both breakaways and by setting a steady pace in the peloton.
Alpecin-Deceuninck’s primary objectives for the Vuelta a España will likely revolve around stage wins, particularly in the sprint stages, where Philipsen and Groves can deliver results. However, with the inclusion of strong climbers like Jay Vine, the team also has the potential to make a mark in the mountain stages and possibly aim for a top ten in the general classification.
The absence of Van der Poel means that the team’s focus will be more spread out, with several riders given the chance to pursue individual glory. This strategy could play well into the unpredictability of the Vuelta, where breakaways and bold tactics often pay off.
Moreover, the team’s blend of youth and experience offers flexibility, allowing them to adapt to the various challenges that the Vuelta presents, from the high-altitude stages in the Pyrenees to the unpredictable weather conditions.
Alpecin-Deceuninck’s approach to the Vuelta a España without Mathieu van der Poel is a bold move, but one that reflects the team’s depth and ambition. The eight riders selected are more than capable of making an impact, whether through stage wins, breakaways, or supporting a strong GC bid. As the race unfolds, all eyes will be on how this dynamic squad performs in the heat of competition, and whether they can continue to build on the momentum that has made them one of the most exciting teams in the peloton.
