The upcoming merger of the two cycling teams Jumbo-Visma and Soudal Quick-Step continues to make waves. Geraint Thomas sees some hurdles facing the new “super team”, especially when it comes to personnel.
If Jumbo-Visma and Soudal Quick-Step actually join forces for the coming cycling season, those responsible would be faced with a problem before the first race: They would have to shrink their line-up, which would then be teeming with superstars.
If Ineos driver Geraint Thomas had his way, one of the stars in question would almost certainly not be part of the squad: Remco Evenepoel.
On the “Watts Occurring” podcast, Thomas said: “One thing I will say is: Remco hates Jumbo and Jumbo hates Remco. That’s not going to work unless they have different programs.” What exactly the Welshman meant by that is not clear.
Thomas hints at trouble between Roglic and Evenepoel
Thomas believes there will be further problems on an interpersonal level. “You should hear what Roglic says about Remco,” the Ineos driver indicated to his podcast partner Luke Rowe that there is also a crackle between the two superstars.
Thomas explained that he couldn’t understand why Jumbo-Visma wanted to get involved in this experiment: “They have just won three major tours.” The fact that the team still needs a new main sponsor – the Jumbo company is withdrawing at the end of the season – is disappointing and a sad sign for cycling, added the Welshman.
The fact that the merger would free up a Pro Tour license could certainly be seen as a good sign, said Thomas. “But half of the jobs will be eliminated because there is a maximum number of drivers. […] A lot of boys would be out, which would also be a shame.”