The Tour de France Leadership Debate: Who's the Right Horse for Red Bull?
In the world of professional cycling, a bold move by Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe has sparked a heated discussion. The team's decision to sign Remco Evenepoel, one of the sport's global icons, has left many questioning their strategy. Veteran commentator Karsten Migels steps into the ring with a bold claim: Red Bull might be overlooking their very own homegrown hero, Florian Lipowitz.
"Florian Lipowitz has what it takes to challenge Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard at the Tour de France," Migels asserts with conviction. "Evenepoel's Vuelta win is impressive, but the Tour is a whole different ball game."
Lipowitz's remarkable 2025 campaign, which saw him finish on the podium and claim the young rider's jersey in Paris, marked a pivotal moment for German cycling. However, the arrival of Evenepoel, alongside the seasoned Primoz Roglic, has created a leadership conundrum for the team heading into 2026.
A Leadership Tug-of-War Unfolds
Evenepoel brings an impressive resume, including Olympic titles, time trial championships, and a Vuelta victory. But with his arrival, a leadership battle looms. "Remco comes with a demand," team boss Ralph Denk acknowledges. "He wants to be the race-shaper, not just a rider."
This ambition could overshadow Lipowitz, who has been the team's GC hope for the past season. "I hope they continue to support his growth," Migels says. "But with Red Bull's Austrian sponsorship, Lipowitz's Tour podium dreams might take a backseat."
And then there's Roglic, a proven Grand Tour winner, who, despite his veteran status, remains a key player. With three ambitious riders and only one undisputed leadership spot at the Tour, the team faces a tough decision.
The Evenepoel Signing: A Controversial Move?
Migels is direct in his critique of the Belgian's signing. "I didn't fully grasp the logic," he admits. "They could have built on their existing project with Lipowitz and the younger riders."
Migels suggests Evenepoel's strengths might not align perfectly with the Tour. "I question Remco's ability to maintain his mental and physical stability over three grueling Tour weeks. With Florian, expectations should be realistic, but I believe he's better equipped to challenge Pogacar and Vingegaard."
As Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe enters a new era with fresh management and a trio of Grand Tour leaders, 2026 could define their future. Will they back Lipowitz, double down on Evenepoel, or rely on Roglic's experience? One thing's for sure: Migels believes Lipowitz deserves the reins. "He can be the flagbearer for German cycling," the commentator concludes. "But he needs the right platform."
And this is where the debate gets interesting. Who do you think should lead Red Bull's charge at the Tour de France? Share your thoughts in the comments!
