Today at the Brussels Classics I changed over to setting up the sprint, after we decided as a team to ride for Tom. Fortunately we also won – so we did everything right.

Looking to the World Championships, it is an important and difficult situation for many riders to recommend themselves right now. For me, the situation is which role I will have in Qatar and also for Tom, whether he will be captain for Belgium. I think it is great, how constructively we as a team discussed and agreed upon the situation. That also speaks for the character and spirit of the team.

Tom has already done a lot for me. So despite the need to recommend myself as often as possible, it was clear that I would do something to pay him back. And it was a special experience, too. I was third to last in the lead-out and I learned that it is very exciting for the guys, after they have done their work and fallen back and then wait to find out if their captain won. It seems like a damned long time. But fortunately it was enough today and after the uncertainty comes the celebration.

My legs are very good. I am optimistic for the next races in which I will again have my chance.

Photo: roth-foto.de