Hero’s welcome in Brussels for Evenepoel

Thousands cheer on new world champion, though not all of Belgium is convinced

- James Shrubsall

A quick training ride before a morning ceremony to be made an honorary citizen and receive a spanking new bike, before heading to a huge party in the capital thrown especially for you.

This might sound like the Carlsberg of birthdays for many of us, but it was reality for Remco Evenepoel on Sunday as he was celebrated in Brussels by a crowd of thousands for his recent victories at the Vuelta a España and World Championship.

Setting out at 8.30 in his brand new Thousands cheer on new world champion, though not all of Belgium is convinced rainbow bands kit, the Quick Step- Alpha Vinyl rider dashed off a brisk 51.75km (32 miles) in just over an hour and a half, before changing into his Sunday best and heading to the day’s first official appointment in Dilbeek, just outside Brussels.

After being awarded honorary citizenship of the municipality – which is where he grew up – in the presence of various dignitaries, Evenepoel was given a rainbow-liveried Specialized S-Works and was also presented with a jersey from Anderlecht football club, which he used to play for as a youngster, signed by the first team.

That theme continued at the Grand Place in Brussels, where he was greeted by a huge crowd, many of whom had cycled the 3.6 miles from Dilbeek to the centre of the capital (Evenepoel took the car, reportedly saying, “I’ve done enough cycling.” Can’t argue with that).

In his element

With his father Patrick and fiancée Oumi in tow, among others, the 22-year-old world champion looked in his element as he took to the balcony of the Brussels Town Hall, dressed in his rainbow bands, complete with gold medal. He waved, took selfies, and even sang along to the thumping Europop, driving the huge crowd wild.