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parent_category: Road

Remco Evenepoel Targets WorldTour Wins at 2026 UAE Tour

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 16, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Al Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi – Remco Evenepoel begins his 2026 UAE Tour campaign on Monday with a clear goal beyond simply adding another victory to his impressive palmarès: improving a statistic that highlights a gap between his overall success and that of his biggest rivals. Despite 72 professional victories to date, the Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe rider has only secured three WorldTour general classification (GC) triumphs – the 2022 Vuelta a España, the 2020 Tour de Pologne and the 2023 UAE Tour itself.

Evenepoel, already boasting six victories this season, acknowledges the importance of elevating his performance at the highest level of the sport. “At this stage of my career, WorldTour wins matter more to me than ProTour wins,” he told reporters on Sunday, ahead of the race’s opening stage. The UAE Tour presents a key opportunity for the Belgian to add to that tally, featuring both a challenging individual time trial and hilly stages suited to his strengths.

The discrepancy in WorldTour success is particularly noticeable when compared to competitors like Tadej Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard. Pogačar has achieved 19 GC wins, with a remarkable 73 percent (14 wins) coming at the WorldTour level. Vingegaard’s record shows a 64 percent split – seven WorldTour victories out of 11 overall wins. Evenepoel’s 23 percent, while still indicative of a highly successful career, underscores the ambition to consistently compete and win at the sport’s most prestigious events.

The eight edition of the UAE Tour, organized by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and presented by AD Ports Group, features a star-studded field of 145 riders. The race is the first UCI World Tour event of the season in the Middle East, and will run from February 16th to February 22nd.

A Familiar Race with Personal Significance

Evenepoel returns to the UAE Tour as a past champion, having triumphed in 2023, besting Luke Plapp and Adam Yates for the overall title. He expressed his enthusiasm for the race, citing a personal connection that adds extra motivation. “One of my goals this year is to win more one-week WorldTour races and the UAE Tour is an opportunity to do so with a time trial and hilly stages,” Evenepoel stated. “Usually the strongest guy here wins and that’s what we’re here for. It’s pretty special for me to be back here.”

That personal connection stems from his wife, Oumii Rayane, whose Moroccan roots and Islamic faith resonate with the cultural context of the race. Evenepoel spoke about the importance of this connection in an Instagram post last April, emphasizing the value of shared beliefs and cultural understanding. “As my second family is Arabic as well, the UAE Tour is a race I’d like to do every year when it fits into my program,” he explained on Sunday.

Del Toro and a Strong Contender Field

While Evenepoel is widely considered the favorite, he faces stiff competition from a strong field of riders. Isaac Del Toro (UAE Emirates-XRG), a rising star in the sport, acknowledges the pressure but is eager to prove himself. “I feel the pressure a little bit, but it’s as the UAE Tour is my first race this year,” Del Toro said. “I understand it’s also the home race for my team. Remco is the favorite for the palmares he has. I also hope to be one of the best riders this week.”

The withdrawal of Jonas Vingegaard due to a crash and illness has removed one significant obstacle, but Pogačar’s absence is also notable. Other contenders include 2020 winner Adam Yates (UAE Emirates-XRG), Felix Gall (Decathlon CMA CGM Team), Ben O’Connor (Team Jayco-AlUla), Derek Gee-West (Lidl-Trek), and Michael Storer (Tudor Pro Cycling Team). Jonathan Milan (Lidl-Trek) is expected to dominate the sprint stages, having won the Green Jersey in 2025 with two stage victories.

Key Stages and Strategic Opportunities

The UAE Tour’s route presents several opportunities for Evenepoel and his rivals to gain an advantage. The race begins Monday with a flat stage to Liwa Palace, followed by a stage 2 individual time trial where Evenepoel hopes to establish an early lead. Uphill finishes on stages 3 (Jebel Mobrah) and 6 (Jebel Hafeet) will be crucial for GC contenders. Stages 4, 5, and 7 are likely to favor sprinters, but could also see tactical maneuvers from the overall contenders.

Evenepoel is focused on maximizing his performance in the time trial. “In the time trial, there are few turns, and that can work in my favor,” he said. “I wish it were longer than 12 kilometers, but you have to make do with what you obtain. I will strive to win that stage and gain time there.” He also acknowledged the strength of the UAE Emirates team, led by Del Toro and Yates, anticipating a challenging battle for the overall victory.

The coming days will reveal whether Evenepoel can capitalize on his form and strategic opportunities to add another WorldTour title to his name, and further close the gap in his statistical comparison to the sport’s leading riders. The UAE Tour promises a compelling contest, with a field of talented cyclists vying for supremacy in the Middle Eastern sun.

Share your thoughts on the upcoming race in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow cycling enthusiasts!

February 16, 2026 0 comments

Sport

Mathieu van der Poel’s HRV & Resting Heart Rate: What Do the Numbers Mean?

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 16, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Mathieu van der Poel’s recent revelation of his remarkably low resting heart rate and high heart rate variability (HRV) has sent ripples through the endurance sports community. The Alpecin-Deceuninck rider shared the data during an appearance on the WHOOP podcast, reporting an average resting heart rate of 38 bpm and an HRV averaging around 200. These figures, significantly outside the norm for the general population, have prompted discussion about the physiological factors contributing to his success on the bike, particularly as he prepares for the spring classics season.

While the numbers themselves are striking, experts caution against drawing simplistic conclusions. Understanding the context of these metrics – and recognizing individual variability – is crucial. Van der Poel’s data offers a glimpse into the physiological demands of elite cycling, but it’s not a blueprint for achieving similar results. The conversation highlights the growing trend of athletes utilizing wearable technology like WHOOP to monitor recovery and optimize training, but also underscores the need for nuanced interpretation of the data.

Decoding Van der Poel’s Numbers

Van der Poel explained on the WHOOP podcast that he believes his high HRV is likely a combination of genetics and fitness. “I’m really high in HRV. I have this discussion with a lot of friends. I suppose it’s a bit genetic maybe as well, but fitness is also key,” he said. Heart rate variability, as explained by experts, isn’t about a steady, metronomic heartbeat. Instead, it measures the variation in time between each beat. A higher HRV generally indicates a more relaxed, parasympathetic state, suggesting the body is well-recovered and capable of handling stress – whether that’s a grueling training session or a battle with Tadej Pogačar on the cobblestones of Paris-Roubaix.

The WHOOP website indicates that for users of Van der Poel’s age, a typical HRV range is 55-105. Van der Poel’s consistently high score of around 200 is an outlier. However, as he and experts emphasize, these numbers are highly individual. A low resting heart rate, like Van der Poel’s average of 38 bpm (with a recorded low of 34 bpm), is often indicative of excellent cardiovascular fitness. Studies have established a “normal” resting heart rate for healthy individuals between 60-100 bpm.

Interestingly, Van der Poel isn’t alone among elite athletes in possessing a remarkably low resting heart rate. Five-time Tour de France winner Miguel Induráin reportedly tested at 28 bpm, while marathon world record holder Eliud Kipchoge averages around 33 bpm, according to various reports. French biathlete Martin Fourcade once shared images suggesting a resting heart rate of 25 bpm.

The Role of HRV and Heart Rate Monitoring in Pro Cycling

Teams across the men’s and women’s WorldTour are increasingly utilizing HRV and resting heart rate data as part of comprehensive athlete monitoring systems. These metrics provide an objective early warning system for overtraining or illness, allowing coaches and medical staff to adjust training loads and intervene proactively. EF Pro Cycling has been a long-time partner of WHOOP, utilizing the technology to track rider well-being, as evidenced by images of riders like Carapaz wearing the device during races.

Van der Poel himself uses his data to gauge his recovery. The key, however, isn’t the absolute numbers, but the variations from his personal baseline. A significant increase in HRV might signal peak readiness for a demanding race like Paris-Roubaix, while a drop could indicate the need for rest or recovery.

What’s Next for Van der Poel and the Spring Classics?

As Van der Poel prepares for the spring classics, including Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix, his physiological data will undoubtedly be a key component of his training and recovery strategy. His ability to consistently achieve high HRV scores and maintain a low resting heart rate suggests a remarkable capacity for both endurance and recovery. However, as experts have pointed out, these numbers are just one piece of the puzzle. Success in these demanding races will ultimately depend on a complex interplay of factors, including tactical acumen, physical strength and a bit of luck.

The increasing adoption of wearable technology and data analysis in professional cycling promises to further refine training methodologies and optimize athlete performance. As we move forward, expect to see more athletes and teams leveraging these tools to gain a competitive edge. What are your thoughts on the role of data in professional cycling? Share your opinions in the comments below.

February 16, 2026 0 comments

Sport

High Winds Halt Racing at Vuelta a Murcia & Volta Femenina 2026

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 14, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Spain’s cycling calendar faced significant disruption Saturday as high winds forced the cancellation of stage two of the Vuelta a Murcia and the outright abandonment of day two of the Setmana Ciclista Volta Femenina de la Comunitat Valenciana. The conditions, which prompted riders to struggle to remain upright in Fortuna during the Vuelta a Murcia, highlight the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather events to professional cycling.

The Vuelta a Murcia, a two-day race, saw its second stage halted shortly after the start. Race officials determined it was “impossible to continue” due to the severe gusts, opting instead for a 10-kilometer neutralized stage to Santomera. Whereas a stage winner and associated jerseys will be awarded, times will not be recorded, meaning the overall standings will be determined by the results of Friday’s opening stage. This outcome underscores the unpredictable nature of the sport and the safety concerns paramount to race organizers.

Marc Soler of UAE Emirates-XRG secured victory in Friday’s first stage, finishing 19 seconds ahead of teammate Julius Johansen. Tom Pidcock of the Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team finished 40 seconds behind Soler, placing him third overall before Saturday’s cancellation. The second stage had promised a more challenging route, featuring ascents of the category 1 Collado Bermejo and a later category 3 climb, but the weather ultimately dictated a different outcome.

The challenging conditions weren’t limited to the men’s race. Organizers of the Setmana Ciclista Volta Femenina de la Comunitat Valenciana made the decision to cancel stage two entirely before it began, citing similar dangerous wind conditions in the province of Alicante. This follows a pattern of weather-related disruptions in the region, with a time trial stage of the men’s race too impacted by high winds last month, though the times from that stage did not count towards the general classification.

Demi Vollering (FDJ United-Suez) currently leads the women’s race, having soloed to victory on the opening stage. She holds a 56-second advantage over Maeva Squiban (UAE Team ADQ) as the race is set to resume Sunday with a fourth and final stage between Sagunt and Valencia. The organizers confirmed the resumption of the race, stating that it will continue “tomorrow, February 15 for the fourth and final stage.”

The Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team saw several riders debut in their team colors at the Vuelta a Murcia, including Quinten Hermans, Brent Van Moer, and Xandro Meurisse. Hermans was pictured during the neutralization of stage 2 due to the strong winds, a visual representation of the day’s challenges. (Photo: Dario Belingheri/Getty Images)

Impact on Rider Safety and Race Schedules

These cancellations and curtailments raise ongoing questions about rider safety and the adaptability of race schedules in the face of increasingly volatile weather patterns. The decision to neutralize stages or cancel events outright demonstrates a commitment to protecting athletes, but also disrupts the competitive flow and planned training schedules. The Vuelta a Murcia’s altered format, while ensuring a result, significantly diminishes the intended challenge of the two-day race.

Pinarello Q36.5 Team in Action

The Vuelta a Murcia also marked Tom Pidcock’s highly anticipated season debut for the Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team. The team, featuring a mix of experienced riders and newcomers, aimed to establish a strong presence and “make a course with intention, cohesion and a distinct identity,” according to team statements. The team’s plans, however, were significantly impacted by the adverse weather conditions.

Looking ahead, the cycling calendar remains packed with major events. The focus now shifts to the continuation of the Setmana Ciclista Volta Femenina de la Comunitat Valenciana and the upcoming Vuelta a Andalucia Ruta Ciclista Del Sol, where Quinten Hermans is also scheduled to compete, beginning February 18th. The sport will undoubtedly be closely monitoring weather forecasts as teams navigate a season increasingly susceptible to the impacts of climate change.

What are your thoughts on the increasing impact of weather on professional cycling? Share your opinions in the comments below.

February 14, 2026 0 comments

News

Tim Heemskerk Quits, Leaving a Void in Visma‑Lease a Bike’s Super‑Team Journey

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 9, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Key Coach Departs Visma-Lease a Bike Amidst Troubled Season

Table of Contents

1. Key Coach Departs Visma-Lease a Bike Amidst Troubled Season
2. The Architect of Success Steps Down
3. A Deep Loss for Visma-Lease a Bike
4. The Evolving Role of the Cycling Coach
5. Key Facts: Heemskerk’s Tenure with Visma-Lease a Bike
6. How will Visma‑Lease a Bike fill the void left by Tim Heemskerk’s retirement?
7. Tim Heemskerk Quits, Leaving a Void in Visma‑Lease a bike’s Super‑Team Journey
8. Heemskerk’s Role: More Than Just a Domestique
9. the Impact on Visma‑Lease a Bike’s Grand tour Plans
10. Potential Replacements and Team Strategies
11. Heemskerk’s Reasons for Retirement: A Look Behind the Decision
12. The Broader implications for Cycling’s Super-Team Model

February 9, 2026

A significant shift has occurred within the professional cycling world as Tim Heemskerk, a pivotal coach for the Visma-Lease a Bike team, has announced his immediate departure. The news, confirmed Monday, casts a shadow over the team’s ambitions, particularly those of star rider Jonas Vingegaard, as he prepares for a challenging season.

The Architect of Success Steps Down

Heemskerk,widely credited with nurturing Vingegaard’s talent and guiding him to multiple Grand Tour victories – including two Tour de France titles and a Vuelta a España win – cited a need to rediscover his creativity and passion within the sport. In a statement released by the team, Heemskerk expressed pride in the team’s growth and his contributions to the riders’ growth, including Vingegaard’s journey from an emerging talent to a dominant force.

the coach’s impact extends beyond vingegaard.He also played a crucial role in the careers of riders like Matteo Jorgenson and the recently retired Simon Yates. Heemskerk’s ability to forge strong interpersonal relationships with his athletes was integral to their success, especially during arduous moments, notably assisting Vingegaard’s recovery from a severe crash at the 2024 Itzulia Basque Country race.

A Deep Loss for Visma-Lease a Bike

Visma-Lease a Bike’s Head of Performance, Mathieu Heijboer, acknowledged Heemskerk’s substantial influence on the team’s ascent to prominence. He emphasized the coach’s contribution to the team’s training methodologies and overall achievements. Heijboer expressed understanding and wished Heemskerk well in his future endeavors.

The timing of Heemskerk’s departure is particularly challenging for the team. The 2026 season has already been marked by setbacks, including injuries to key riders such as Vingegaard and Wout van Aert, as well as the unexpected retirement of veteran cyclist Simon yates.

The Evolving Role of the Cycling Coach

The modern cycling coach has evolved far beyond simply creating training plans. Today’s triumphant coaches are adept at data analysis, sports psychology, and nutrition, but equally significant is the ability to build trust and rapport with athletes. According to a 2023 report by TrainingPeaks,teams increasingly prioritize the psychological well-being of riders alongside their physical conditioning.

This departure highlights the increasing pressure and demands placed on high-performance coaches. burnout is a significant concern, and the need for coaches to continually innovate and adapt is paramount in a constantly evolving sport.

Key Facts: Heemskerk’s Tenure with Visma-Lease a Bike

Year	Key achievement
2019	Joined Visma-Lease a Bike
2020-2024	mentored Jonas Vingegaard to two Tour de France Victories
2023	guided vingegaard to Vuelta a España victory
2026	Departed Visma-Lease a Bike

This situation raises questions about how Visma-Lease a Bike will navigate Vingegaard’s enterprising racing schedule, which includes a challenging Giro-Tour double. Will the team be able to maintain its momentum without a key figure like Heemskerk? And what dose this mean for the future coaching landscape within the sport?

Do you think a team can successfully replace a coach with such a close relationship with its star athlete? What other factors do you believe contribute to a cyclist’s success beyond training and physical conditioning?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How will Visma‑Lease a Bike fill the void left by Tim Heemskerk’s retirement?

Tim Heemskerk Quits, Leaving a Void in Visma‑Lease a bike’s Super‑Team Journey

The cycling world received a jolt on February 9th, 2026, with the unexpected announcement of Tim Heemskerk’s retirement from professional cycling. The Dutch powerhouse, a key component of the Visma‑Lease a Bike team’s ambitions, steps away mid-season, creating a importent challenge for the squad as they navigate the upcoming race calendar. This departure isn’t simply a rider leaving a team; it’s the loss of a crucial engine within a meticulously constructed super-team.

Heemskerk’s Role: More Than Just a Domestique

While frequently enough described as a domestique, Heemskerk’s contributions extended far beyond simply fetching bottles and pacing leaders. He was a tactical linchpin, renowned for his ability too read races, anticipate attacks, and control the peloton. His strength in the mountains and consistent performance in time trials made him invaluable, notably in stage races like the Tour de France and Vuelta a España.

* Mountain Support: Heemskerk consistently positioned himself as a key support rider for team leaders during crucial mountain stages.

* Time Trial Prowess: A strong time trialist, he often set a high benchmark for the team and contributed to strong team results in this discipline.

* Tactical Intelligence: His race awareness allowed him to make critical decisions on the road, often dictating the pace and controlling the breakaway attempts.

His ability to sacrifice personal glory for the benefit of the team was legendary, earning him the respect of teammates and rivals alike. This selfless dedication was a cornerstone of Visma‑Lease a Bike’s success over the past several seasons.

the Impact on Visma‑Lease a Bike’s Grand tour Plans

the timing of Heemskerk’s retirement is particularly disruptive. Visma‑Lease a Bike had built their 2026 campaign around a multi-pronged approach, targeting success in all three grand Tours. Heemskerk was slated to play a vital role in supporting Jonas Vingegaard’s bid for a third Tour de France title, as well as providing crucial assistance to their contenders in the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España.

the team now faces several immediate challenges:

Finding a Replacement: Identifying a rider with Heemskerk’s skillset – a combination of climbing ability, time trial strength, and tactical acumen – is a difficult task, especially mid-season.
Adjusting Team Dynamics: Heemskerk’s departure disrupts the established team hierarchy and requires a recalibration of roles and responsibilities.
Maintaining Momentum: The shock of losing a key rider can impact team morale and performance. Visma‑Lease a Bike will need to quickly address these concerns to maintain their competitive edge.

Potential Replacements and Team Strategies

Several riders have been speculated as potential replacements,though none offer a direct like-for-like substitute. Names circulating include experienced veterans seeking new opportunities and promising young talents looking to prove themselves at the highest level.

the team may opt for a combination of strategies:

* Internal Promotion: Elevating a current team member to fill the void, perhaps giving a younger rider a significant prospect.

* Mid-Season Signing: Pursuing a free agent or negotiating a transfer with another team, a complex process with limited availability.

* Tactical Shift: Adjusting their race strategy to compensate for heemskerk’s absence, potentially relying more on aggressive tactics and breakaway attempts.

Heemskerk’s Reasons for Retirement: A Look Behind the Decision

While the official statement cites personal reasons, sources close to heemskerk suggest a growing disillusionment with the demands of professional cycling. The relentless training schedule, constant travel, and intense pressure to perform reportedly took a toll on his physical and mental well-being.

This mirrors a growing trend within the peloton, with several riders in recent years retiring prematurely due to burnout and mental health concerns.Heemskerk’s decision highlights the importance of prioritizing rider welfare and addressing the challenges faced by athletes in this demanding sport. The conversation around athlete mental health in cycling is gaining momentum, and Heemskerk’s story adds another layer to this crucial discussion.

The Broader implications for Cycling’s Super-Team Model

Visma‑Lease a Bike’s investment in a “super-team” – assembling a roster of top-tier riders – has been a defining feature of modern cycling. However, Heemskerk’s departure raises questions about the sustainability of this model.

* Rider Burnout: The intense pressure to perform within a super-team can lead to burnout and premature retirement.

* Team Chemistry: Maintaining team harmony and ensuring all riders feel valued can be challenging in a team dominated by star riders.

* Financial Constraints: Building and maintaining a super-team requires significant financial resources, potentially creating an uneven playing field.

The cycling landscape is evolving, and teams will need to adapt their strategies to address these challenges.

February 9, 2026 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts

parent_category: Road

Remco Evenepoel Targets WorldTour Wins at 2026 UAE Tour

A Familiar Race with Personal Significance

Del Toro and a Strong Contender Field

Key Stages and Strategic Opportunities

Mathieu van der Poel’s HRV & Resting Heart Rate: What Do the Numbers Mean?

Decoding Van der Poel’s Numbers

The Role of HRV and Heart Rate Monitoring in Pro Cycling

What’s Next for Van der Poel and the Spring Classics?

High Winds Halt Racing at Vuelta a Murcia & Volta Femenina 2026

Impact on Rider Safety and Race Schedules

Pinarello Q36.5 Team in Action

Tim Heemskerk Quits, Leaving a Void in Visma‑Lease a Bike’s Super‑Team Journey

Key Coach Departs Visma-Lease a Bike Amidst Troubled Season

The Architect of Success Steps Down

A Deep Loss for Visma-Lease a Bike

The Evolving Role of the Cycling Coach

Key Facts: Heemskerk’s Tenure with Visma-Lease a Bike

How will Visma‑Lease a Bike fill the void left by Tim Heemskerk’s retirement?

Tim Heemskerk Quits, Leaving a Void in Visma‑Lease a bike’s Super‑Team Journey

Heemskerk’s Role: More Than Just a Domestique

the Impact on Visma‑Lease a Bike’s Grand tour Plans

Potential Replacements and Team Strategies

Heemskerk’s Reasons for Retirement: A Look Behind the Decision

The Broader implications for Cycling’s Super-Team Model

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