This year’s World Road Cycling Championships will take place in Rwanda on a route that is very suitable for climbers. Denmark’s superstar Jonas Vingegaard has so far avoided a definitive start confirmation. This makes former Tour de France winner Bjarne Riis shake his head.
Former Danish professional cyclist Bjarne Riis cannot understand at all why his compatriot Jonas Vingegaard has not yet committed to taking part in the World Cup this year. Riis explained in an interview with the newspaper “BT” that he was surprised that the two-time Tour winner had not already finalized his program for 2025.
“If he were to go down at the Vuelta, that would of course change a lot. But when we talk about a world-class rider like Jonas Vingegaard, I think it’s a question of head and motivation,” Riis believes that his compatriot might just doesn’t feel like going to the World Cup.
“Yes, it’s hard to ride the Vuelta before the World Cup, but maybe he won’t get another chance to become world champion. Why is he avoiding a clear statement? Is it because he maybe doesn’t believe he can win the World Cup ?” Riis asked.
“If he is shaved by Pogacar in Spain, …”
Another theory from the former professional: “He’s probably afraid of being tired after the Vuelta and needing a break. If he gets shaved by Pogacar in Spain, he’ll probably no longer have the motivation he needs for the World Cup. I don’t see anyone else Reason. Unless he has other priorities. But then you wonder what they are.”
Vingegaard declared last week that he would fundamentally consider taking part in the World Cup. However, he also said that a lot could happen during the season that prevents this plan. “I don’t buy the premise that he can have an accident and other things can happen. You have to have a solid plan. There will always be unpredictability during a season,” said Riis.
One thing is certain for Riis: Rarely has a World Championship course been more ideal for Vingegaard than the ups and downs this year in Rwanda. “The track isn’t getting any better for him. Many of us don’t understand why it doesn’t seem to be an honor for him to ride for the national team. If he doesn’t prioritize that, it would only be fair to say so.”