thecyclingdane

thecyclingdane

Join thecyclingdane to discuss all things cycling. From professional race previews to interviews with pros, we have you covered for your fix of cycling. Also available on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter @thecyclingdane

  1. 1D AGO

    Amstel Gold Race 2026 Preview Show - Can Remco Evenepoel Get Revenge From Last Year?

    The Ardennes are back—and so is the chaos. The Amstel Gold Race returns in 2026 with one of the most unpredictable editions in recent years, and already the storyline is taking shape before a wheel has even turned. Remco Evenepoel headlines the race, returning to Limburg with a clear mission: revenge. After a frustrating outing last year where everything that could go wrong seemingly did, Evenepoel comes back sharper, more focused, and with something to prove on roads that don’t forgive mistakes. But this year, the dynamic shifts in a major way—there’s no Tadej Pogačar. His absence removes one of the most explosive and unpredictable forces in the race, opening the door tactically and psychologically for others. Without him, the race loses a rider who can win from anywhere, and that changes how teams approach the finale. Lidl–Trek will be hoping to defend their title after Mattias Skjelmose’s victory, while UAE Team Emirates may need to rethink their approach after Isaac del Toro crashed out earlier in the Itzulia Basque Country, leaving them searching for a strong plan B. Still, Amstel Gold is never straightforward. The narrow roads of Limburg, the constant fight for position, and the relentless sting of climbs like the Cauberg mean control is always temporary. One hesitation, one poorly timed move, and the race can flip completely. In this episode, we break down how Evenepoel’s revenge narrative shapes the race, why Pogačar’s absence could actually make things more dangerous, how Lidl–Trek can defend their win, and what UAE Team Emirates do next. Because if Amstel Gold has taught us anything, it’s that the strongest rider doesn’t always win—just the one who times it right.

    32 min
  2. APR 3

    Itzulia Basque Country 2026 Preview Show - Can Paul Seixas Beat Isaac del Toro Again?

    Itzulia Basque Country is back, and as always, it’s one of the most explosive and unpredictable stage races of the season. Running from April 6th–11th, this year’s edition opens with a punchy time trial in Bilbao before six relentless days of climbing, technical racing, and uphill finishes that will constantly pressure the GC. In this episode, we break down the full route and where the race will be won — from the steep opening TT that could already create gaps, to the brutal Stage 5 with nearly 4,000 metres of climbing, and a final day into Bergara that almost guarantees late drama. With the addition of Red Bull KM time bonuses, expect aggressive racing and constant GC movement throughout the week. Then we dive deep into the favourites. Isaac del Toro comes in as the man to beat after a sensational start to 2026, already proving he can win big stage races and handle repeated climbing efforts. Primož Roglič arrives with a point to prove after a quieter Tirreno-Adriatico and will likely race aggressively, especially on the punchy uphill finishes that suit him perfectly. Juan Ayuso is one of the biggest question marks — if he’s recovered from his crash, he has the all-around ability to win this race, but any weakness will be exposed quickly on this terrain. Meanwhile, Paul Seixas continues his rapid rise and could be on the verge of a true breakout moment at WorldTour level. Beyond the headliners, this is where Itzulia always gets dangerous. Antonio Tiberi has already shown strong stage race form this season, Tobias Halland Johannessen thrives in chaotic, climbing-heavy races, while Mikel Landa and Pello Bilbao will be hugely motivated on home roads and know exactly how to race this terrain. This race rarely follows the script — so who survives the chaos, and where does it all explode?

    34 min
4
out of 5
3 Ratings

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Join thecyclingdane to discuss all things cycling. From professional race previews to interviews with pros, we have you covered for your fix of cycling. Also available on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter @thecyclingdane

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