In the 2026 Tour de France, Alpecin-Premier Tech’s Mathieu van der Poel delivered a commendable performance in the opening team time trial. The team briefly held the lead before being surpassed by Netcompany INEOS. Van der Poel described the effort as “okay,” noting that losing a few riders earlier than anticipated led to longer turns at the front, which was taxing. Despite this, he felt the team maximized their potential, acknowledging that while victory was unlikely, they performed admirably. He also mentioned that the plan worked well from the final climb onward, attributing the early loss of two to three riders to the unpredictable nature of team time trials.
Reflecting on expectations, Van der Poel stated he never anticipated winning, considering it unrealistic. He aimed to limit losses to half a minute to a minute, keeping the team in contention for future stages. Looking ahead, he expressed confidence in his form and satisfaction with his performance, despite the challenges posed by the upcoming stages.
Alpecin-Premier Tech’s lineup for the 2026 Tour de France includes Van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen, both aiming for stage victories and the green jersey. The team also comprises Ramses Debruyne, Silvan Dillier, Tim Marsman, Edward Planckaert, Jonas Rickaert, and Emiel Verstrynge. (alpecincycling.com)
In preparation for the team time trial, Alpecin-Premier Tech employed traditional bike technology, utilizing hub-mounted speed sensors from Wahoo. This approach provided precise speed data, aiding in maintaining consistent speeds during team formations and offsetting potential GPS inaccuracies in aerodynamic positions. (cyclingnews.com)
Looking ahead, the Tour’s second stage presents a challenging profile, featuring seven categorized climbs in the finale in Barcelona, including the steep Côté du Château de Montjuïc. The team is preparing for this demanding stage, aiming to leverage their strengths and continue their pursuit of stage victories.
Highlights:
- Alpecin-Premier Tech Tour de France line-up provides powerful back-up for leading stage hunters Jasper Philipsen and Mathieu van der Poel, Published on Tuesday, June 30
- Who will secure the first yellow jersey of the Tour de France? Stage 1 team time trial start times, Published on Friday, July 03
- ‘My career is already more than successful’ – Pressure-free Mathieu van der Poel eyes up another stint in yellow at Tour de France, Published on Monday, June 29