Montréal, Canada – As the 2026 UCI Road World Championships approach, Belgian national team coach Serge Pauwels has expressed confidence in the ability of Remco Evenepoel and Wout van Aert to contend for a medal, despite the presence of overwhelming favorite Tadej Pogačar. Pauwels highlighted key differences in the Montréal course compared to previous editions of the Grand Prix de Montréal, believing these changes will particularly benefit Van Aert.
Pogačar, fresh off a strong spring campaign, is widely considered the frontrunner for the rainbow jersey. However, Pauwels believes the Belgian team possesses strengths that could challenge the Slovenian star. “We all realize that Pogacar will be tough to beat, but…” Pauwels stated, echoing a sentiment gaining traction within the Belgian camp. The coach emphasized that Pogačar will be without the same level of support from his UAE Team Emirates teammates in Montréal as he typically enjoys.
“Remember the edition of the GP Montréal last year, where they simply made it a long team time trial?” Pauwels explained. “With the Slovenian team, he won’t be able to build the race as hard so easily.” This tactical consideration, combined with a modified course, provides a glimmer of hope for the Belgians.
A significant change to the Montréal course is the reduction in the number of laps around the local circuit. Instead of the 17 laps featured in the Grand Prix de Montréal, the World Championships will feature 12 laps, preceded by a 112-kilometer flat introductory loop. This adjustment reduces the total elevation gain from approximately 5,000 meters to 3,700 meters. Pauwels believes this alteration is particularly advantageous for riders like Van Aert.
“For someone like Van Aert, that makes a huge difference,” Pauwels said. While acknowledging Pogačar’s consistent performance on climbs this year, Pauwels remains optimistic. “We can’t say that he is less than in other years.”
The Belgian team is currently evaluating a strong pool of potential riders, including those recovering from recent injuries or just returning to form. Names in contention include Nys, Van Gils, Widar, Benoot, and Wellens. Pauwels noted that all riders approached have expressed interest in competing. There’s as well a potential surprise contender in the mix: Jules De Lie, who believes he can perform well on the Montréal course.
“Even De Lie has indicated that he believes he can get far on that course,” Pauwels revealed. Despite Pogačar and Paul Seixas currently appearing to be in superior form, the ultimate goal remains clear: to win the World Championship. Pauwels and his team are now focused on developing a strategy to achieve that objective.
The upcoming World Championships in Montréal represent a significant challenge for the Belgian team, but Pauwels’ assessment suggests a determined approach and a belief in the potential of his riders. The reduced climbing and tactical considerations surrounding Pogačar’s team support offer a pathway to success, and the Belgians are prepared to explore every avenue in pursuit of the rainbow jersey.
The men’s elite road race is scheduled for September 27, 2026, in Montréal. Fans can follow live updates and results on the UCI website (https://www.uci.org/) and through official team channels.
