Belgian cyclist Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Quick Step), 23, will defend the red jersey as the winner in the next edition of the Vuelta, which starts on 26 August in Barcelona and ends on 17 September in Madrid. then it will have its ‘big’ spin Abandoning the Giro d’Italia in 2023.

“I’ll be back and ready to defend my title at La Vuelta 2023. I’m looking forward to a new challenge on the beautiful Spanish roads. See you in Barcelona!“The current world champion announced on his Twitter account this Monday.

Despite being the director of Soudal, Patrick Lefevere said it was better not to join the Tour of Spain. He changed his mind when he checked the level he returned from his injury. “Remco Evenepoel wants to overcome high challenges and will join La Vuelta if all goes well in concentration and has no problems,” Lefevere told Belgian newspaper DH.

Last year’s winner will head Barcelona alongside Primoz Roglic (Jumbo Visma), Juan Ayuso (UAE Team Emirates) or Geraint Thomas (Ineos Grenadiers) and unaware of the existence of other potential favorites like runner-up. Enric Mas (Movistar Team) or Richard Carapaz (Training First), who were classified last year, were injured in the first stage of the Tour.