'Last year I was lucky' – Tables turn on Mattias Skjelmose as he cannot match a fully fit Remco Evenepoel in the Amstel Gold Race

In a dramatic reversal of fortunes at the 2026 Amstel Gold Race, Remco Evenepoel emerged victorious over Mattias Skjelmose in a tense two-man sprint finish. Last year, Skjelmose had stunned the cycling world by defeating Evenepoel and Tadej Pogačar, but this time the Belgian rider asserted his dominance, capitalising on a fully fit season to power away in the finale. With the reigning world champion absent, Evenepoel seized the opportunity to demonstrate his climbing strength and sprinting prowess, ultimately edging out Skjelmose after a hard-fought contest. The race dynamics were shaped early on by a crash that eliminated key contenders Kévin Vauquelin and Matteo Jorgenson from the leading group, allowing Evenepoel and Skjelmose to distance their rivals and set up a gripping showdown. Skjelmose acknowledged the shift in form between the two years, conceding that Evenepoel’s superior legs made the difference this time. Despite pushing himself to the limit and expecting to be dropped on the climbs, the Dane managed to stay with the Belgian until the final sprint, where Evenepoel proved too strong. Both riders expressed deep admiration for the Amstel Gold Race, highlighting its unique challenges and appeal. Skjelmose, more accustomed to stage races and Grand Tours, described the event as his closest experience to the cobbled Classics, praising its demanding terrain and mental intensity. Evenepoel, meanwhile, ranked the victory among his top career achievements, emphasising the race’s prestige and the significance of winning it in only his second participation. Looking ahead, Skjelmose remains determined to reclaim the title, viewing the Amstel Gold Race as one of his favourite events despite its physical and mental toll. Evenepoel’s win reinforces his status as one of the sport’s leading figures and sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting season. The rivalry between these two talents is likely to continue captivating fans as they push each other to new heights in the Classics and beyond.