The cycling world is buzzing after Danish legend Bjarne Riis, the 1996 Tour de France winner, sparked controversy by branding Jonas Vingegaard “arrogant” in a fiery critique ahead of La Vuelta a España 2025. Riis, a vocal analyst for BT, called out the two-time Tour champion for his provocative comments and perceived lack of humility as he prepares for the Grand Tour starting August 23 in Torino, Italy. The accusation ignited a storm, and Vingegaard didn’t hold back, unleashing a scathing response just five minutes later that left fans stunned.

In a heated post on X, Vingegaard reportedly mocked Riis, saying, “The old man should shut up,” before dragging up Riis’s controversial past, including his admitted doping during his 1996 Tour victory. “You’re the last to lecture on integrity,” Vingegaard allegedly fired, referencing Riis’s tarnished legacy. The explosive clapback has divided Danish cycling fans, with some praising Vingegaard’s boldness and others shocked at the disrespect toward a national icon.

Riis’s criticism stems from Vingegaard’s recent behavior, including his ambiguous stance on the 2025 World Championships and his team’s questionable tactics at the Tour de France. “Jonas acts like he’s untouchable,” Riis told BT, questioning the Visma | Lease a Bike star’s focus. The feud has added fuel to the hype surrounding La Vuelta, where Vingegaard aims to challenge for the red jersey against rivals like João Almeida and Juan Ayuso.

This clash exposes deep tensions in Danish cycling’s golden era. Will Vingegaard’s fiery response backfire, or will it fuel his drive on the brutal climbs of Angliru and Bola del Mundo? Follow La Vuelta 2025 for the drama and action!