Remco Evenepoel skips Belgian Nationals to focus on Tour de France

Remco Evenepoel will skip the Belgian National Championships to focus on the Tour de France, starting July 4. His former team manager Patrick Lefevere supports this decision.

What happened?

Remco Evenepoel has not raced since Liège-Bastogne-Liège and will now prepare for the Tour de France.

Why it matters for Remco Evenepoel

Lefevere understands Evenepoel's decision, citing the mandatory participation in the Belgian Nationals as an "absurd situation".

What comes next?

Evenepoel's absence from the Nationals might result in a short suspension, but it's unlikely to affect his Tour de France participation.

Lefevere described the situation in his Nieuwsblad column, stating that every rider wants to wear the Belgian National Champion's jersey at some point.

The Belgian Cycling Federation regulations require pro racers to participate in the Nationals, but Lefevere thinks this rule is outdated.

Remco Evenepoel's decision to skip the Nationals has caused a minor media storm in Belgium, with some arguing that the Belgian jersey has little importance for pros.

However, Lefevere disagrees, saying that the jersey is still important for riders like Evenepoel.

The Tour de France starts on July 4, and Evenepoel will be one of the top contenders.

Lefevere will be backing Jasper Philipsen for the title in the Belgian Nationals, which will take place on a flat course.

The decision to skip the Nationals was made to ensure Evenepoel is fully focused on the Tour de France.

This move might pay off, as Evenepoel has been performing well in recent events.

The Belgian National Championships will still be an important event, even without Evenepoel's participation.

Lefevere's support for Evenepoel's decision shows that he understands the importance of prioritizing major events like the Tour de France.

Evenepoel's preparation for the Tour de France will be crucial in determining his success in the event.

The upcoming Tour de France will be an exciting event, with top riders like Remco Evenepoel competing.