A bold comeback is on the cards for Dylan van Baarle, as the Soudal-Quick-Step team aims to reignite his career and reclaim their crown as the kings of cobblestone racing. But here's where it gets controversial... they're taking a unique approach to training that might just give them an edge over the competition.
After a challenging season marred by crashes and inconsistent form, the Belgian team has decided to hit the reset button on their new leader. Van Baarle, a former Paris-Roubaix champion, is determined to rediscover his top form and become one of the most feared riders in the peloton once again.
The team's performance staff has been hard at work analyzing the reasons behind Van Baarle's recent struggles. According to his new trainer, Michel Geerinck, the intense training structure at his previous team may have taken a toll on his natural physiology. So, they've decided to go back to basics with a new training approach - a return to massive training hours, but at a lower intensity.
"Riders of Van Baarle's caliber are like V8 engines," Geerinck explains. "They need a lot of volume to perform at their best. We're rebuilding the engine that made him a champion." This new strategy aims to unlock his full potential and get him back to the level that saw him dominate long-distance races.
But here's the part most people miss... it's not just about the training. Geerinck has also fostered a closer partnership between Van Baarle and his teammate, Jasper Stuyven. Despite living in the same city for years, the two riders rarely trained together. Now, they're working in sync, and Geerinck believes this collaboration will give them an extra boost.
"When you have two riders like this working together, it's like having two engines on the road," Geerinck says. "I see many similarities between Jasper and Dylan, and we're focusing on their strengths."
The team is well aware of the challenge posed by the two 'aliens' of cycling, Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogacar. But they believe that a top-form Van Baarle can offer a tactical advantage. "You need a good plan to beat these extreme athletes," Geerinck admits. "But give Van Baarle a chance, and he'll make it count."
Recent physical tests suggest Van Baarle is ready to take on this challenge. "The tests show he's back to his old top level, and that's fantastic news. He's drawing confidence from it." To ensure he's fresh for the Monuments, the team has designed a specific schedule, skipping the major one-week stage races in March. "We want him to be at his best for the Flemish classics. Let's hope this strategy pays off."
So, will Van Baarle's unique training approach and tactical advantages be enough to beat the aliens? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure - this comeback story is sure to keep cycling fans on the edge of their seats. What do you think? Will Van Baarle reclaim his throne as one of the kings of cobblestones? Let us know in the comments!
