Vingegaard, a two-time Tour de France champion and one of Denmark’s most celebrated athletes, has endured mounting criticism for his subdued performances in recent months. His absence from decisive moments at the World Championships has been particularly glaring. While once seen as the unquestionable leader of the national team, his recent choices have led to growing frustration among Danish supporters, who had hoped to see their star rider cement his legacy on the global stage.
The 2025 World Championships were widely expected to be a chance for Vingegaard to rebound from a difficult season marked by injuries and inconsistency. Instead, his lack of assertiveness has been perceived as a sign of waning confidence or perhaps a strategic retreat, sparking fierce debate across social media and in the press. Many commentators have accused him of “wasting” opportunities and undermining Denmark’s prospects, while others defend him as prioritizing long-term form over short-term glory.
Into this vacuum has stepped Mattias Skjelmose, the 24-year-old rising star of Danish cycling. Skjelmose, who has impressed throughout the season with bold attacks and resilient performances, is now being heralded as the team’s natural leader. His determination and aggressive style have captured the imagination of Danish fans, who see him as the embodiment of the nation’s future in competitive cycling.
The shift from Vingegaard to Skjelmose marks a dramatic turning point for Danish cycling. For years, the national team’s strategy revolved around protecting and supporting Vingegaard, building races around his strengths. But with his repeated absences from crucial battles, Skjelmose’s ascent represents a new era — one that promises excitement but also uncertainty. Critics warn that the pressure on Skjelmose may be overwhelming and that it could destabilize the team’s unity at a pivotal moment.
Internationally, the move has not gone unnoticed. Rivals from Belgium, France, and Italy have already begun recalibrating their tactics, anticipating a more unpredictable Danish squad. The sight of Skjelmose at the front of the peloton, rather than Vingegaard, is sending ripples through the peloton’s power dynamics.
For Vingegaard, the criticism may serve as a wake-up call or a breaking point. Whether he regains his leadership role or cedes it permanently to Skjelmose will depend on his performances in the coming months. What is clear is that Danish cycling is at a crossroads, with fans and analysts alike holding their breath to see how this bold reshuffle plays out on the world stage.
