Cycling superstars Remco Evenepoel and Tadej Pogačar dominate headlines, but what’s it really like to ride alongside them? Finn Fisher-Black, one of the few to have been teammates with both, reveals a surprising truth: these cycling giants are just 'normal guys.' As Fisher-Black embarks on a new chapter with Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe, he shares unique insights into how these champions not only win races but also elevate entire teams through their leadership and humility.
Fisher-Black, a standout Kiwi rider, is kicking off his season at the Tour Down Under, aiming to replicate—or even surpass—his impressive 2025 performance. After transitioning from UAE Team Emirates-XRG to Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe, the 23-year-old is determined to unlock his full potential. His immediate goal? Securing a spot on Red Bull’s Tour de France team, a feat that demands consistency from the season’s start in Adelaide to its peak in July. But here’s where it gets controversial: can Fisher-Black truly step up to the level required, or will he be overshadowed by the team’s new star, Evenepoel?
Beyond the Tour, Fisher-Black has his eyes on Milan-San Remo, inspired by Pogačar’s revolutionary approach to the race. He’ll also tackle Itzulia Basque Country and the Ardennes classics alongside Evenepoel, aiming to prove himself as a key teammate. And this is the part most people miss: Fisher-Black’s experience with both Pogačar and Evenepoel offers a rare glimpse into how these champions balance immense pressure with genuine humility.
‘It’s impressive how much attention and pressure they face, yet they remain so grounded,’ Fisher-Black notes. ‘They’re just normal guys who can relax and have a conversation without making you feel like you’re talking to a superstar. That’s a real quality—it makes them easy to be around.’
Fisher-Black believes Evenepoel’s arrival at Red Bull could replicate the transformative effect Pogačar had at UAE Team Emirates. ‘A leader who sets an example and wins in style inspires everyone around them,’ he explains. ‘It raises the standard for the whole team. I’m a big believer that success breeds success—when you see someone winning, it motivates you to think, ‘Maybe I can do that too.’
However, Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe’s growing budget hasn’t yet translated into consistent results, leaving owner Ralph Denk eager for team-wide improvements. New Chief of Sports Zak Dempster emphasizes the need for internal competition, stating, ‘All boats rise in a high tide. If we only have eight riders ready for the Tour, it’s an issue.’ This raises a thought-provoking question: will Fisher-Black’s relationship with Evenepoel give him an edge over equally strong competitors?
Fisher-Black is already strategizing for the Tour’s team time trial in Barcelona, eight months away. ‘Relationships and how you connect with leaders and teammates are massive, especially over three weeks,’ he says. ‘I think I can excel in the team time trial and help Remco gain as much time as possible.’
While Fisher-Black has a long way to go to secure his Tour de France spot, a strong showing Down Under, more national titles in New Zealand, and a successful UAE race with Evenepoel could seal the deal. One thing’s for sure: he’ll leave no stone unturned in his pursuit.
What do you think? Can Fisher-Black rise to the occasion, or will Evenepoel’s shadow prove too large? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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