Get ready for a major shake-up in Remco Evenepoel's 2026 racing calendar! The Olympic Champion is reportedly skipping the Giro d'Italia, a decision that's sure to spark debate among cycling fans. But here's where it gets even more intriguing: Evenepoel is set to make his highly anticipated debut at the Tour of Flanders, though he'll likely bypass classics like Sanremo and Roubaix. So, what's behind this strategic shift? Let’s dive into the details.
Remco Evenepoel, currently training in Mallorca with the Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe team, is no stranger to meticulous planning. Known for his preference for a clear, structured schedule, Evenepoel’s 2026 season might already be mapped out, complete with a few surprises. Today marks the German team’s media day, where we’ll likely get a glimpse into his ambitious plans.
But here's where it gets controversial: Just a few months ago, it seemed almost certain that Evenepoel would tackle the Giro d'Italia. With Florian Lipowitz returning to the Tour de France and the Grand Boucle’s route less favorable for time trial specialists, the Giro appeared to be a perfect fit. The 2026 Giro route, featuring a 40-kilometer flat time trial on Stage 10, seemed tailor-made for Evenepoel’s strengths. It would have given him a realistic shot at winning the Corsa Rosa while still allowing time to prepare for the Tour de France. Yet, according to Het Laatste Nieuws, the Giro isn’t on the Belgian’s radar.
Instead, Evenepoel’s season will kick off at the Volta a Comunitat Valenciana on February 4th, marking his first race in Red Bull colors. With the Tour de France as his ultimate goal, he’ll focus on stage races to adapt to his new team, equipment, and racing strategies. This includes the UAE Tour, where he’s a strong favorite, and the Volta a Catalunya in March, skipping Milano-Sanremo to fine-tune his climbing form.
And this is the part most people miss: Evenepoel’s debut at the Tour of Flanders is a bold move, positioning him as a team leader and mirroring Tadej Pogacar’s recent transition to classics. He’ll also tackle the Ardennes classics—Amstel Gold Race, Flèche Wallonne, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège—before shifting his focus to the Tour de France. Without the Giro on his calendar, Jai Hindley and Giulio Pellizzari are likely to lead the team in Italy, while Evenepoel sticks to his traditional pre-Tour routine, including an altitude camp and the Tour Auvergne - Rhône Alpes.
So, is Evenepoel making the right call by skipping the Giro? Or is he missing a golden opportunity? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to keep cycling fans talking!
