The cycling world was thrown into chaos today as Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe officially confirmed the removal of Remco Evenepoel from his captain role for the upcoming Tour de France 2026. The decision, described by insiders as “brutal and unexpected,” has sent shockwaves through Belgium and beyond.

According to multiple sources, the team’s leadership made the decision after analyzing the newly revealed Grand Tour route, which insiders have dubbed “the most unpredictable in a decade.” Rumors suggest Red Bull’s strategists considered the course too mountainous and risky for Evenepoel’s strengths.

Remco, visibly devastated, broke his silence during an emotional interview in Brussels. “This is a deadly trap,” he said, voice trembling. “They knew this route wasn’t made for me — and they used it as an excuse to push me out.”

The statement spread like wildfire across social media, with fans rallying behind the Belgian star under the hashtag #JusticeForRemco. Within hours, Red Bull’s official page was flooded with angry comments demanding answers.

Team insiders claim tensions have been building for weeks. Reports of heated discussions between Evenepoel and Red Bull management emerged after he questioned the team’s dual leadership strategy with new signing Aleksandr Vlasov.

A leaked internal email hinted at deeper conflict. “We must build the future around those who fit the course,” it read — a line many believe was directed at Remco. The message has ignited speculation that the Belgian was betrayed by his own team.

What made the situation even stranger was the mysterious nature of the 2026 Tour route. Unlike previous editions, organizers revealed an unconventional layout — fewer time trials and more brutal alpine ascents. Analysts say this design heavily favors pure climbers like Pogacar and Vingegaard, leaving punchy riders like Evenepoel at a disadvantage.

For Remco, this isn’t just a tactical setback; it’s a personal heartbreak. “I’ve trained my whole life for this,” he said, holding back tears. “To be told I’m not the one anymore — it hurts more than any fall I’ve had.”

Red Bull, in a short and tense statement, defended its choice as “a strategic adjustment made for the team’s overall competitiveness.” However, they refused to confirm who will replace Evenepoel as team leader.

The Belgian cycling community has erupted in support. National coach Sven Vanthourenhout declared, “Remco is still the most complete rider Belgium has. Dropping him before the Tour is unthinkable.”

Meanwhile, rival teams are reportedly circling. Quick-Step and Jayco AlUla have already been linked to secret talks with Evenepoel’s camp, raising questions about his future beyond 2026.

As outrage grows, one anonymous mechanic from Red Bull described the team atmosphere as “toxic and divided.” “Half the staff stands with Remco,” he said. “The other half is terrified of what comes next.”

The next few days could decide not only Evenepoel’s career but also Red Bull’s reputation in professional cycling. The Belgian’s final words from the interview echoed like a warning: “If they wanted silence, they picked the wrong rider.”

With fans in revolt and rivals watching closely, the storm around Remco Evenepoel is only beginning. The 2026 Tour de France hasn’t started yet — but the battle lines are already drawn.