Remco Evenepoel has shifted his mountain racing strategy in the Tour de France, favoring calculated pacing over impulsive efforts.
The Evolution of Evenepoel’s Climbing Strategy
Throughout the 2026 Tour de France, observers have noted that while Evenepoel occasionally struggles on steep ascents, he avoids the complete collapses seen in previous seasons. During an appearance on Vive le Vélo, analyst Marijn de Vries noted that while the rider still experiences “weak moments,” his ability to manage these instances has fundamentally changed. Rather than pushing past his threshold and risking a total standstill, Evenepoel now employs a more disciplined approach to his power output.
Pro Tip: The Power of Pacing
Evenepoel’s success in limiting time losses is attributed to his “pacing strategy.” By resisting the urge to follow every acceleration from rivals, he ensures he has enough energy to maintain a steady tempo, which is often more efficient for overall race standings.
Data vs. Instinct: The Role of the Wattagemeter
A common debate in modern cycling is whether the wattagemeter dictates a rider’s performance or if it merely informs it. Tim Declercq, speaking from his perspective as a trainer and former teammate, argues against the idea that the device controls the rider. He emphasizes that the technology acts as a feedback loop for the rider’s own internal sensations.
“There comes a moment where you feel you are at your limit,” Declercq said on Vive le Vélo. “If you try to go over it, you often stand completely still. In the past, Remco had the tendency to try anyway. Now, he knows his body better and realizes it is better to let go.”
Strategic Recovery for Time Trials
The decision to “let go” during mountain stages is frequently a tactical choice, particularly when a time trial is on the horizon. Analysts suggest that Evenepoel’s measured efforts are influenced by his objective to recover for upcoming stages where he holds a competitive advantage. By not over-extending on the climbs, he preserves the strength necessary to recoup lost time in his preferred discipline.
Did you know?
In professional cycling, a “smart drop” refers to a rider intentionally choosing to lose contact with a lead group rather than blowing up, allowing them to ride at their own sustainable pace to the summit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the wattagemeter tell a rider when to stop?
No. According to Tim Declercq, it provides data, but the rider must still interpret their physical state. The device helps confirm when a rider is reaching a physiological limit that, if ignored, would lead to a total loss of momentum.
Why does Evenepoel lose time on some climbs?
Evenepoel uses a “pacing strategy” to avoid over-exerting himself. By choosing not to match the pace of his rivals when he is near his limit, he prevents a total collapse, which allows him to maintain a consistent speed and minimize overall time loss.
How has Evenepoel’s approach changed since his early career?
Observers like Marijn de Vries note that Evenepoel is more calculated now. He has moved away from the tendency to chase every move, instead focusing on his own body’s signals to determine when to push and when to settle into a manageable rhythm.
How do you think data-driven racing has changed the spectacle of the Tour de France? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into professional cycling tactics.
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