Evenepoel Secures First World Tour Victory, Solidifying Lead in Tour de France
Belgian cyclist Remco Evenepoel has proven his prowess on the world stage, taking the first World Tour victory of his career at the 2022 Tour de France. The 22-year-old leader of the Soudal team has dispelled doubts about his ability to compete with the world’s best climbers, solidifying his position as one of the top riders in the sport.
Evenepoel’s victory came on the seventh stage of the Tour, a time trial in Gevrey-Chambertin, where he managed to beat Slovenian rival Tadej Pogacar by a staggering 12 seconds. The stage featured 25 kilometers of racing, including a challenging small hill in the middle of the course. Evenepoel’s dominance extended beyond the time trial, as he showed impressive form on the grueling climbs of the Massif Central and the Pyrenees, and even bested Jonas Vingegaard on the return to the Alps.
Next, Evenepoel will face off against Pogacar once again in the second time trial of the Tour, taking place today. The stage features two significant hills, which could potentially favor riders more accustomed to climbing on a time trial bike. As the favorite to win, Evenepoel will need to bring his A-game to emerge victorious.
One thing is certain, however: Remco Evenepoel is here to stay. With his first World Tour victory under his belt, the Belgian young gun has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional cycling.