Remco Evenepoel revealed he deliberately avoided social media for two weeks ahead of his surprise Tour of Flanders debut, which was announced only days before the race despite earlier denials. Confident in his chances, Evenepoel insisted he would not start unless victory was possible, acknowledging his lack of experience on the cobbled course but highlighting his strong one-day race credentials. He also dismissed the idea of forming alliances during the race, emphasising that the strongest rider ultimately prevails on the challenging climbs.

Remco Evenepoel’s debut at the Tour of Flanders places him among elite Grand Tour winners like Tadej Pogačar, Alejandro Valverde, and Vincenzo Nibali, who have all tested themselves on the challenging cobbles with varying degrees of success. Pogačar’s initial attempt in 2022 showcased his aggressive style but also highlighted the learning curve required to master the race’s unique demands, a lesson Evenepoel faces without prior cobbled race preparation. Similarly, Julian Alaphilippe’s memorable debut demonstrated how bold moves can shape the race, despite setbacks, underscoring the blend of resilience and tactical acumen needed to excel at Flanders.

Isaac del Toro enters the 2026 Itzulia Basque Country as a leading contender to secure his third WorldTour stage race victory of the season, following wins at Tirreno-Adriatico and the UAE Tour. The race’s brutally hilly profile, featuring five uphill finishes and a challenging opening time trial, suits Del Toro’s explosive climbing style, despite his relative weakness against the clock. With top rivals like Juan Ayuso, Primož Roglič, and Ion Izagirre also in contention, the unpredictable Basque terrain and potentially adverse weather promise a fiercely contested battle, where Del Toro’s form and team strength could prove decisive.

Allan Peiper, former pro rider and current team director at UAE, shares his deep connection with the Tour of Flanders, having raced and directed teams in the iconic Belgian classics. Living on the course in Geraardsbergen, Peiper reflects on the evolving race route, noting the shift away from historic landmarks like the Muur due to practical concerns such as traffic and spectator management. He recalls his own top-10 finishes and tactical experiences in Flanders and Paris-Roubaix, emphasising the importance of winter preparation and interval training in his career.