Cyclocross Champion Thibau Nys Weighs Tour de France and Vuelta for 2025 Grand Tour Debut
January 23, 2025Thibau Nys, the European cyclocross champion, is contemplating his participation in a Grand Tour for 2025, primarily focusing on the Tour de France while ruling out the Giro d'Italia.
He has narrowed his choices down to either the Tour de France or the Vuelta a España.
Nys acknowledged the competitive nature of securing a spot in the Tour de France, noting that his inclusion may be influenced by team strategies and sponsor goals.
He emphasized that his final decision will depend on various factors, including team selections, sponsor interests, and his physical form.
Nys aims to enhance his chances of selection by proving himself in the spring races, although he recognizes that sponsor priorities could impact team decisions.
His spring schedule includes significant races such as the GP Indurain, Tour of the Basque Country, Amstel Gold Race, and Flèche Wallonne.
Despite the competition he will face, particularly from top riders like Tadej Pogacar, Nys expressed confidence in his potential for a strong performance at the Flèche Wallonne.
He noted that participating in the Vuelta could provide a boost for his cyclocross season, but he is aware of the associated challenges.
Nys announced that he would delay his decision on which Grand Tour to participate in until after the cyclo-cross season and spring classics, surprising his team Lidl-Trek.
Discussions with Lidl-Trek have been described as 'honest and open,' reflecting the complexities of team dynamics and sponsor expectations.
Additionally, he is a potential candidate for the Belgian national team at the World Championships in Rwanda, although he feels it may be too late in the season to focus on that event.
Nys highlighted his uncertainty about his racing schedule, stating, 'I'm not allowed to say it yet, but that's because I don't know myself.'
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