Giro d’Italia 2023: Remco Evenepoel ‘was sick as a dog’ – Patrick Lefevere defends withdrawal of star rider

Confirming that Evenepoel is still positive after undergoing further testing in Belgium, Lefevere acknowledged that the young cyclist is feeling better.

The team has faced criticism for withdrawing Evenepoel from the Giro d’Italia. Lefevere, however, remained unapologetic and addressed the situation head on.

Lefevere also dismissed the notion that Evenepoel intentionally went home, saying: “He was positive and then people said he went home on purpose? If I go to my lawyer, I think whoever said that would have a problem. It’s libellous.”

He also highlighted Evenepoel’s determination and resilience, pointing out that, despite his illness, he won the time trial: “We came to the Giro to win. You could see that Remco was sick even the day before the time trial.

“He looked tired, but he still won the time trial. He deserves some respect for that.”

He also addressed suggestions that the team should have informed the race organiser, RCS Sport, and expressed gratitude to them for allowing Evenepoel to participate.

“They have a point; we should have called them as a team,” he said. “I didn’t realise that somebody hadn’t called them.

“I was at home when it all happened, and it was like a bomb exploded in the team, and so everyone was shocked. I think people can understand that.”

Team doctor Cruyt emphasised that the team prioritised Evenepoel’s health when making the decision to withdraw him from the race.

“I’m not going to take any risks with anybody’s health, otherwise you’re not worthy of being a doctor,” he said. “I have already experienced it with Tim Declercq. He contracted pericarditis (inflammation of a pericardium) shortly after a Covid infection.

“I have also heard enough stories of people who have pulmonary fibrosis or heart problems. That is something you should avoid as a young, promising cyclist who still has a whole future ahead of him.

“I heard from Remco yesterday during the drive back home and he wasn’t feeling too well. He tested again at home and that test was also positive. Waiting for the rest day, therefore, made no sense and would not have been without risks for the rest of the team.

“I have no regrets that I haven’t controlled everyone or made everyone wear a mask. I don’t think that would have changed anything, and also Remco is one of the only riders who had never had Covid. Maybe that’s the reason why he got it now, I don’t know.”

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