As anticipation builds for the 2025 Tour de France, the latest EUROTRASH newsletter is packed with updates from the cycling world, including news from the Giro dell’Appennino race.
TOP STORY:
Evenepoel, Vingegaard, and Roglič Explore the Col de la Loze
Remco Evenepoel recently tackled the notoriously challenging Col de la Loze, a key climb for the upcoming Tour de France. His expedition followed a day when Jonas Vingegaard and his Visma | Lease a Bike teammates including Wout van Aert and Simon Yates, also climbed the same mountain. Primoz Roglič was spotted conquering the Col just days prior.
After competing in the Criterium du Dauphiné, Evenepoel began an altitude training camp in Tignes, focusing on Alpine climbs pivotal to the Tour. The Col de la Loze features an arduous 26.4 kilometers with a steep average gradient of 6.5%. During his ascent, Evenepoel described the climb as “very irregular” and anticipated it will play a significant role during stage 18 of the Tour de France.
Notably, Roglič formerly gained time on Tadej Pogačar at this site during the 2020 Tour, although he faced challenges this season after abandoning the Giro d’Italia due to crashes.
Race Report: Giro dell’Appennino
In a thrilling finish at the Giro dell’Appennino, Diego Ulissi claimed victory with an impressive 30-kilometer solo ride. Racing around Genoa, Ulissi triumphed despite a competitive field, including Andrii Ponomar and teammate Simone Velasco. This win marks a significant return for Ulissi, who is looking forward to the Italian National Championships.
Rider Updates:
– Julian Alaphilippe has opted out of the French National Championships, citing fatigue as he prepares for the Tour de France. This marks the first time since 2019 he will not compete for the national title.
– Mathieu van der Poel engages in rigorous training in Spain while balancing recovery, aiming for optimal form for the Tour.
– Thibau Nys has resumed training after recent illness, with confidence from his coach leading into the Tour de France.
Team Developments:
– The newly established Modern Adventure Pro Cycling team plans to compete at top levels worldwide, with a goal to partake in the Tour de France by 2032, emphasizing the growth of American cycling talent.
– Team Visma | Lease a Bike confirmed its roster for the Tour, showcasing strong contenders for stage wins and overall success.
Recent regulatory updates include a seven-day suspension for Oscar Riesebeek after receiving two yellow cards during the Baloise Belgium Tour, marking a significant disciplinary moment in the sport.
This edition of EUROTRASH highlights not only the physical challenges that riders face but also the emerging stories of teams and athletes preparing for one of cycling’s most prestigious events. Fans have much to look forward to as the cycling season continues to unfold.