As the cycling world buzzes with excitement over Remco Evenepoel’s dazzling start to the season, it’s easy to forget that Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe is a powerhouse team brimming with talent. But here’s the part most people miss: while Evenepoel steals the spotlight, his co-leaders—Primož Roglič, Florian Lipowitz, and Jai Hindley—are quietly laying the groundwork for their own triumphs. So, how are these cycling titans faring in the early season?
Jai Hindley: Racing a pivotal contract year in 2026, Hindley’s season debut has been delayed due to a pesky cold—a common ailment sweeping Europe. But don’t count him out just yet. After rediscovering his Grand Tour form with a fourth-place finish at the Vuelta a España last season, he’s determined to pick up where he left off. His focus? Another shot at the pink jersey at the Giro d’Italia in May, followed by a potential support role for Evenepoel at the Tour de France. But here’s where it gets controversial: With Red Bull taking their time to select the Tour lineup, will Hindley secure his spot alongside the team’s new star? Only time will tell.
Florian Lipowitz: Lipowitz’s meteoric rise to fame after his third-place finish at the Tour de France has solidified his role as a key player in Red Bull’s Grand Tour strategy. Already kicking off his season alongside Evenepoel in Mallorca, he’s set to co-lead the team in July. His winter training camps and a solid performance at the Trofeo Ses Salines hint at big things to come. And this is the part most people miss: Lipowitz’s ability to thrive under pressure could make him a dark horse contender in this year’s Tour de France. What do you think—is he ready for the top step of the podium?
Primož Roglič: While Roglič recently took a break to cheer on Slovenia’s ski jumpers at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, he’s now back in business, gearing up for a limited but strategic race schedule. His goal? To break the record for overall victories at the Vuelta a España with a fifth red jersey. But here’s where it gets controversial: With a packed field of contenders, can Roglič truly dominate the Vuelta again, or is his reign coming to an end? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Giulio Pellizzari: Pellizzari’s stellar start to the season at the Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana, where he played a crucial role in Evenepoel’s overall victory, has cemented his rising status within the team. His bromance with Evenepoel and impressive performances have team officials raving. And this is the part most people miss: Pellizzari’s rapid development could make him a key lieutenant in Red Bull’s Grand Tour ambitions. Is he the unsung hero the team needs?
Dani Martínez: After a disappointing 2025 season, Martínez is looking to bounce back, inspired by Evenepoel’s leadership. Despite a minor setback with food poisoning, his second-place finish at the Colombian National Championships time trial shows promise. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can Martínez truly return to his 2024 Giro d’Italia form, or is his peak performance behind him? Let us know your take!
Aleksandr Vlasov: Once a dominant force, Vlasov has fallen down the pecking order at Red Bull, but his consistent performance at the Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana suggests he’s not ready to fade into the background just yet. And this is the part most people miss: Vlasov’s resurgence could be the underdog story of the season. Do you think he has what it takes to reclaim his former glory?
As Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe’s stars navigate the early season, one thing is clear: this team is a force to be reckoned with. But the real question is—who will rise to the top, and who will be left in the shadows? Share your predictions and join the debate below!
