The excitement for the upcoming 2025 Sporza Wielermanager is palpable as cycling fans and players prepare for the start of the season with key insights and strategies. Celebrated television maker Thomas Huyghe, who has been deeply involved with the Wielermanager game, recently shared his thoughts on team selections, showcasing his mixed feelings about including star names.
“I removed Mathieu van der Poel from my team yesterday to make space for Pedersen and Pidcock. You can hardly say those are two bad riders,” Huyghe explained. His strategy reflects the often unpredictable nature of cycling seasons, especially at the onset when riders' participation schedules are still unclear. His current lineup emphasizes top riders and sprinters, which he believes is pivotal for performance during the spring cycling season. “I keep going for the top riders and many sprinters; I think that's the trick for spring.”
Among Huyghe’s selections are several sprinters like Merlier, Philipsen, and Meeus, with the aim of securing points during smaller sprints. Huyghe acknowledges the necessity for balance, mentioning earlier struggles with lacking options for these specific races. “Riders like Meeus and Fretin should compensate for this,” he noted, indicating his intention to refine his team as the actual races commence.
Huyghe is also clear about his unwavering inclusion of Oliver Naesen, stating, “Many thought I didn’t have him on my team last year, but it was fake news! He was good, and I believe he will continue to perform.” Naesen not only garners points on the track but also lends his insights to Huyghe’s selections. The dynamic nature of team creation is apparent as Huyghe shares his struggles: “I revamped the entire lineup yesterday; it’s quite chaotic!”
Alongside the team preparation, the cycling community has their eyes set on the upcoming races. The Flemish cycling spring kicks off with the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne this weekend. Enthusiasts from Wielerclub Wattage are waking from their winter slumber. Anticipation hinges on the participation of Tadej Pogacar, who is expected to be a significant contender this season. Dirk De Wolf emphasized Pogacar's potential, saying, “Tadej Pogacar will be at the start. Would you explore for fun in January?”
Supportive voices, including former professional cyclist Tom Boonen, echoed similar sentiments about Pogacar’s capabilities. Boonen suggested, “What can he not do?” indicating the high expectations placed on Pogacar, which is not unfounded considering his formidable past performances.
Meanwhile, Maxim Van Gils is being spotlighted as Belgium’s potential star this spring, with hopes he might be able to clinch victory at key races like Liège-Bastogne-Liège. Bakelants noted, “I place him among the Belgians who should be able to win a monument.” All eyes are equally on Florian Vermeersch, who seems rejuvenated after his transfer to a top team, showing signs of significant potential with his new platform.
Wrapping up current insights, fan-favorite Wout van Aert also shared his thoughts on the league and strategies involved for the Wielermanager. “What I enjoy the most about the game is competing against friends,” Van Aert said, reminiscing about his own attempts at team management. “I forgot to adjust my team after two or three races,” he chuckled, adding light-hearted vulnerability to his experience.
According to Van Aert, three names stand out as must-haves for the season: “Tiesj Benoot, Matteo Jorgenson, and Axel Zingle.” Notably, he predicted Pogacar would likely score the most points, considering his commitment to numerous classicsthis season, especially since Remco Evenepoel is currently sidelined due to injury.
Van Aert’s final reveal included his playful team name, “The Pletwals van Herentals,” giving fans another playful layer to his competitive spirit as they await the season’s kick off.
The 2025 Sporza Wielermanager promises to deliver not only fierce competition and passion for cycling but also community camaraderie as fans engage with the sport they love. With top riders preparing to face off and selections still flexible, it’s sure to be an exciting season.