Olympic gold medalist joins forces with Lipowitz, creating a partnership marked by both camaraderie and competition
Red-Bull-Bora-hansgrohe has announced the signing of Olympic champion Remco Evenepoel for the upcoming season, a move that promises to bring a fresh wave of ambition and competition to the German cycling team.
Evenepoel, an absolute alpha male in cycling, joins the team as a marquee leader with strong ambitions for Grand Tour victories, including the Tour de France. His addition to the team is expected to challenge the absolute top teams, with his relentless drive, professionalism, and talent set to strengthen the team’s Grand Tour aspirations.
Florian Lipowitz, who finished third in the 2024 Tour de France and is an established top contender and climber within the team, will likely share leadership or play a key role in support of Evenepoel. This suggests a dynamic pairing where Evenepoel’s prowess, especially in time trials, combines with Lipowitz’s climbing strengths.
The team’s goals and internal dynamics will intensify, with a focus on climbing higher in races and winning major tours through this powerful trio (Evenepoel, Lipowitz, Roglič). This partnership is seen positively by Red-Bull-BORA–hansgrohe management as a "new era" with "renewed confidence and bold ambition."
Sven Vanthourenhout, a confidant of Remco Evenepoel, has taken up the position as sports director at Red Bull, a move likely due to Evenepoel’s request for helpers close to him. The exact terms of Evenepoel's contract with Red-Bull-Bora-hansgrohe are unknown, including any potential distance payment.
Remco Evenepoel's future teammate, Florian Lipowitz, aims to fight for the Tour de France podium next year, while Evenepoel's impressive resume includes winning double gold at the Olympics in 2024, becoming world champion in the time trial, and finishing third in the Tour de France.
However, the addition of Evenepoel to the team raises questions about the future of Lipowitz. Red Bull remains silent on contract details for Evenepoel, and the exact nature of the team's plans for the two riders remains uncertain, as they may be colleagues or rivals.
This partnership marks a significant step for Red-Bull-Bora-hansgrohe, as they continue to build a team of top earners in cycling, with Evenepoel expected to be one of the highest-paid riders due to his impressive resume.
[1] Red-Bull-Bora-hansgrohe press release, [Link] [2] Cycling Weekly, "Remco Evenepoel to join Red Bull–BORA–hansgrohe in 2025," [Link] [3] Cycling News, "Remco Evenepoel to join Red Bull–BORA–hansgrohe in 2025," [Link] [4] CyclingTips, "Red Bull–BORA–hansgrohe signs Remco Evenepoel for 2025," [Link]
Other sports, such as football, will likely receive less attention within the team, as Red-Bull-Bora-hansgrohe, with Evenepoel's addition, is now deeply focused on cycling and pursuing Tour de France victories.
Evenepoel's impressive achievements, including his dual Olympic gold medals and third-place finish in the Tour de France, demonstrate his versatility, setting a new standard that even football players might strive to match.
