Remco Evenepoel: A Last Ride for Soudal Quick-Step at Il Lombardia
Cycling fans gathered in Bergamo, Italy, for the monumental Il Lombardia on October 11, 2025, where all eyes were on Remco Evenepoel as he took to the road for one last time in the Soudal Quick-Step jersey. It was a bittersweet moment, marked by both the thrill of competition and the end of a significant chapter in his career. Despite not clinching the victory he desired, Evenepoel’s performance breathed fresh life into the closing of a long-standing partnership, hinting at potential for the road ahead.
A Reflective Journey
Evenepoel faced an uphill battle this season, with a major crash last winter that shook his preparation, impacting his performance in critical races, including a disappointing exit from the Tour de France. It was a season rife with challenges, yet optimism bloomed as he stood on the precipice of the off-season, buoyed by a strong second-place finish at Il Lombardia.
“I am just happy with how I have been racing in the past two months,” Evenepoel remarked, acknowledging the support from his team. While the race wasn’t a win, it was a stepping stone—an indication that he was shaking off the weight of setbacks and gearing up for a formidable 2026 season.
The Race: Elusive Victory
As the race unfolded, the dramatic climbs of Passo di Ganda and relentless pace of Tadej Pogačar became pivotal moments. Evenepoel, racing aggressively, led the chase after Pogačar exploded ahead with just under 40 kilometers remaining. Although he would finish 1:48 behind, Evenepoel’s fight against the odds was evident—especially after a chaotic moment on the final climb where two motorbikes almost collided in front of him.
Evenepoel reflected on the close call, acknowledging, “That was pretty hectic…especially because I was going quite fast.” Despite the challenges, his spirit remained unbroken. He navigated the last climb skillfully and expressed pride in how he managed to remain competitive, showing that his resilience is as powerful as his pedaling.
Looking Ahead: New Beginnings
As he transitions to Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe for next season, Evenepoel sees this outing as a fresh start rather than a goodbye. “The last seven years are something I will take with me for the rest of my life, but I think now it is time for something new to start,” he stated. With a hunger for improvement and a refusal to settle, Evenepoel is poised to analyze and address the gaps that lie between him and his fiercest rivals.
Gear and Training Insights
For fellow cycling enthusiasts watching Evenepoel’s journey, it’s a reminder of the significance of building resilience through training and mental fortitude. The road to success is rarely smooth, and Evenepoel’s story highlights the unwavering dedication required to turn obstacles into stepping stones—whether by investing in quality gear for safety or working closely with knowledgeable coaches to fine-tune performance.
Takeaway
As Evenepoel rode off after his final race with Soudal Quick-Step, fans were left with anticipation—anticipation not only for his future performances but also for the evolution of a true sporting talent. His journey exemplifies the heart of cycling: persistence, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. For every cyclist, his story serves as a beacon—reminding us that even when the path is rocky, with determination and support, the summit can be reached.
Original article: Outside Online
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