Belgian cyclist Remco Evenepoel is reportedly considering adding the Tour de Romandie and the National Time Trial Championships to his training schedule ahead of the prestigious Tour de France. Following a major setback last year, Evenepoel is now on a comeback trail, currently training at altitude in Spain with his team. His initial race this season will be Brabantse Pijl, followed by participation in all Ardennes Classics. There are also plans for him to debut in the Tour de Romandie and possibly compete in the Belgian TT Nationals before focusing on his main goal, the Tour de France.

A Closer Look at Evenepoel's Upcoming Race Plans

In the picturesque Sierra Nevada region of Spain, Evenepoel has been preparing diligently for what promises to be an intense racing season. His first competitive outing will take place on April 18 at Brabantse Pijl, marking the beginning of his return to form. Afterward, he intends to participate in several key races, including the demanding Ardennes Classics. According to Belgian media reports, Evenepoel may make his first appearance at the Tour de Romandie since 2019, where he previously finished 76th. Additionally, there is speculation that he might enter the Belgian National Time Trial Championships held in Brasschaat on June 27, which could serve as crucial preparation for the upcoming Tour de France.

Notably, Evenepoel has demonstrated exceptional skill in time trials, having claimed victory in the 2024 Tour de France’s seventh stage, a grueling 25.7-kilometer test. Moreover, he secured the National TT title back in 2022. If he decides to compete in the Belgian Nationals, it would provide valuable practice ahead of the Tour de France’s lone individual time trial stage, scheduled for May in Caen, Normandy, over 33 kilometers.

Before heading to the Criterium du Dauphiné, another significant preparatory event, Evenepoel is expected to undergo a second altitude training camp. This race will mark his first direct confrontation with top competitors Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogačar this season.

As details about the 2025 Belgian National Time Trial routes emerge later this month, they may influence Evenepoel's final decision regarding participation in the championships. A definitive choice isn't required until late May.

From a journalist's perspective, Evenepoel's strategic approach to building up his form through carefully selected races showcases both prudence and ambition. His inclusion of diverse events highlights a commitment to not only regaining peak fitness but also fine-tuning specific skills necessary for success in the Tour de France. Fans eagerly await seeing how these preparations translate into performance on the grandest cycling stage.