Remco Evenepoel Wins Post-Tour Criterium in Aalst Before 75,000 Fans
- The event functioned as a massive homecoming celebration for the rider following his Tour de France campaign.
- The race itself was a blend of professional riders and younger cyclists, with the youth riders starting the criterium before the headline stars arrived.
- Despite the lack of recovery time, Evenepoel noted that his motivation remained high even if his energy levels were not at their peak.
A Homecoming Under the Lights
The event functioned as a massive homecoming celebration for the rider following his Tour de France campaign. The atmosphere was electric. Supporters gathered early to secure autographs and wait for Evenepoel and other top competitors to join the circuit.
The race itself was a blend of professional riders and younger cyclists, with the youth riders starting the criterium before the headline stars arrived.
Fighting Through Exhaustion
Evenepoel did not enter the race fully rested. He told Sporza that he was in bed at 2:30 a.m. before the event.
He was tired. But he was motivated. Despite the lack of recovery time, Evenepoel noted that his motivation remained high even if his energy levels were not at their peak.
The Weight of Local Fame
Winning in his birthplace brought a specific kind of pressure. Following the victory, Evenepoel addressed the scale of the reception and the reality of returning home as a celebrated athlete.
“Easy to come back down to earth? Sure, I never ascended,” Evenepoel told HLN.
Belgian Press Confirms the Win
Multiple Belgian outlets, including De Standaard and HLN, confirmed the victory in Aalst. They detailed the event as a high-profile honor for the rider in his home city.