What's Happening
Following cyclist Jasper Philipsen's recent public statement about the online hate messages he has received, Belgian top cyclist Remco Evenepoel has also responded to this growing problem. Evenepoel revealed that he temporarily deleted his Instagram account due to the numerous negative comments and the mental pressure these brought. Both sports figures emphasize that this type of aggression in the digital space is increasingly becoming a reality for top athletes in Flanders and the rest of Belgium. Their statements shed new light on the mental strain athletes face, in addition to the physical challenges inherent in their sport. This highlights the need for broader awareness and targeted support for athletes.
Background
Online hate speech has long been a worrying trend in the sports world, a phenomenon that is also gaining increasing attention in Belgium. Athletes are directly confronted via social media platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook with criticism, insults, and sometimes even threats. For many athletes, including Philipsen and Evenepoel, this can have a significant impact on their mental well-being, their performance, and even their daily lives. The anonymity and immediate availability of social media platforms make it easy for the public to express unfiltered feedback, often without considering the personal consequences for the recipient. According to a recent survey by Statbel, a growing number of young Belgians experience online bullying, which underlines the urgency of this problem in a broader societal context. This issue extends across various sports and affects athletes of all levels, from local clubs to international stars.
Impact of Social Media on Belgian Athletes
Belgian sports federations and clubs, including the Royal Belgian Cycling Federation and Cycling Vlaanderen, recognize the seriousness of this issue and are seeking ways to support their athletes. Increasing efforts are being made to provide mental guidance and media literacy to make athletes more resilient to online negativity. Furthermore, the federal government, through policy initiatives and projects, is working to combat cyberbullying and digital hate campaigns. An example of this is B-SAFE, a platform that offers advice and help to victims of online intimidation. The Media Literacy Expertise Centre also pays attention to raising awareness about the dangers of social media for vulnerable groups, including top athletes. However, responsibility does not solely lie with the federations and the government; social media platforms themselves are also called upon to actively intervene against hate messages and create a safer online environment, in accordance with EUR-Lex guidelines for digital services.
Remco Evenepoel's statements can be found in an article by HLN Sport, published on July 23, 2026, in which he discusses the issue with Jasper Philipsen and shows solidarity. This article laid the foundation for a broader discussion.
What This Means for Belgium
The openness of figures like Remco Evenepoel and Jasper Philipsen significantly contributes to a greater societal awareness of the downside of fame in the digital age. Their testimonies compel a much-needed debate on how we handle online communication and the protection of public figures, especially in sectors with intense media attention such as elite sports. For coaches, sports psychologists, and policymakers in Belgium, such as the relevant Ministries of Sport of the Flemish and Walloon Governments, this is a clear signal to intensify their efforts regarding athletes' mental health. It emphasizes the need to take both preventive measures, such as education and training in managing social media, and provide effective support to victims of online intimidation. This incident can serve as a catalyst for a broader discussion on norms and values on social media and the further protection of Belgian top athletes against online abuse, including the role that municipalities like Antwerp and Bruges can play in supporting their local sports heroes.