Cycling, Valverde new coach of Spain. But Freire is not having it

Rome, 24 January 2025 – There is still no official confirmation of the case, but Alejandro Valverde is on his way to becoming the new coach of the Spain: not without internal controversy.

Valverde's statements and Freire's attack

The position left vacant by Pascual Momparler it therefore seems to be about to go to the former world champion, who without paying attention to superstition has already commented on the imminent investiture, even already thinking about the World Cup in Rwanda. "We've been working on it for a while and, in general, we have four years of hard work ahead of us. We have a lot of good riders at our disposal, so I feel like I'm arriving at the right time. However, the season is still long and everyone will have time to show themselves." The new CT in pectore has very clear ideas, just as he has Oscar Freire, which to the microphones of As did not hide his disappointment for a role he thought he had in his hands. "I was made fun of and what hurts me the most is that I found out about this from the newspapers. I spoke with Jose Vicioso (the head of the Federation, ed.), who was amazed, without giving me any explanations. Furthermore, he told me that his first choice has always been Valverde". In some ways, this tension in the flagship of the Spain seems to also reflect what happens on the road, where there is no shortage of talent. From the experience of Mikel Landa to the freshness of Juan Ayuso, passing through a Carlos Rodriguez who still has a lot to prove: this trio will probably be played at Kigali the leadership of a National who dreams of returning to greatness in cycling and who to do so needs a unity of purpose that, at least as far as bureaucratic aspects are concerned, does not seem to exist.

Stuyven's statements

In home Lidl Trek instead, harmony seems to reign, as witnessed by Jasper stuyven, which to the microphones of Spouse he stated that he is ready to work with and for jonathan milan al Tour de France 2025. "Last year, at the Giro d'Italia, we have demonstrated that our train works very well. I think we can confirm this also in the Tour de France, where we will go with such a strong sprinter to try to reach a very clear goal". Not just the duties of a domestique: during the season the Belgian hopes to carve out his own opportunities. Crashes permitting. "Last year was not easy for me, because I got injured right when I was in great form. I hope to get back to that level to fight for a podium or even a victory. At this point in my career, it is important for me to get back to competing for the top places, because I don't think a simple result would make much difference for my contract. And, above all, I don't want that to be the motivation".

Read also - Sinner-Zverev, time and where to watch it