Becking's Turmoil: Out of the Epic Before it Begins

“Wout [Alleman] and I had really big plans for this year’s [Absa] Cape Epic, there’s no hiding that. But I was asking myself with this level, what’s best for the team and what’s best for Wout. It’s definitely not my level of fitness at this moment, which is a shame because I really do try. To win the [Absa] Cape Epic every detail is really important and there’s no chance of winning it. No chance at all. I had a good talk to Wout and explaining myself what he already understands. He’s a good friend and he told me we are humans and we can’t order good fitness or legs from Temu or Ali Express. It doesn’t work that way. It is what it is.”

“I spoke to the team explained to them that I don’t have the same level as last year. That I can do a good [Absa] Cape [Epic] but I won’t be able to fight for the podium. Then yesterday they decided that I won’t be doing the [Absa] Cape Epic. It’s a hard decision but I think it’s the right decision,” Becking concluded. 

He went on to confirm that he would be back later in the year and Epic Series fans are likely to see him in action in 4Islands Epic Croatia as well as the Andorra Epic Pyrenees in April and July. Meanwhile for Buff Megamo, Becking’s withdrawal leaves a selection dilemma. Becking and Alleman have proved a formidable pairing together, while new signing Martin Stošek is a proven campaigner but is still a fresh face in a set-up which prides itself on consistency and creating a good team ethos. Should the Czech star slot in he will match the Belgian Champion’s climbing prowess, but the communication and soft skills between the pair will be unproven in the crucible of the Untamed African Mountain Bike Race. 

For more news and for an extensive build-up to the 2025 Absa Cape Epic grab the March issue of Bicycling Magazine when it hits the shelves of South African newsagents on Friday, 28 February. International fans can read all about the race on www.epic-series.com/capeepic.