Stuyven, who finished fourth in the road race ultimately won by Julian Alaphilippe, admitted some members had been “crying on the bus” in Leuven, and were all invited to a virtual team meeting five days later.
Evenepoel, however, chose not to join his Belgian teammates on the call, with Stuyven casting further doubt on the 21-year-old’s communication skills.
“Everyone was there, except Remco,” Stuyven told Het Nieuwsblad.
“He was aware but didn’t think it was necessary. I think that is a shame, especially because he thought it (was) necessary to say things on TV.
“That stuck with some of us.”
Wout van Aert was among those offended by Evenepoel’s actions, particularly after the latter used a television interview to air his frustration at not being Belgium’s lead rider.
Evenepoel’s revelation appeared to contradict his pre-race attitude and Stuyven did not hold back in his assessment of the situation.
“I think that Remco should sometimes be slowed down by his entourage,” Stuyven added.
“He still has to learn when he can and cannot say things.
“Also, a super-strong rider – which he certainly is – should realise that some things should remain internal.”
