Absence of Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel "an important nuance" in Gent-Wevelgem success according to Jumbo-Visma

As Jumbo-Visma rode a near perfect ride at Gent Wevelgem, claiming the one-two win via Christophe Laporte and Wout van Aert, many were quick to point out the absence of Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogacar, something Sports Director Maarten Wynants admits did play its part.

With a nearly two minute lead for van Aert and Laporte over the nearest challenges, it is easy to view their win as an easy one, Wynants does not agree however. "In time, the others of course also start to ride for the podium, because they know that victory is no longer achievable. That may give a somewhat distorted picture," he explains to WielerFlits. "Van der Poel and Pogacar are not there, so that is also an important nuance.”

"On the last Kemmel, Van Aert stood out, so we said Wout could make the call whatever he wanted to do. We put it with them," he continues. "We did not receive a call from the big boss in the team leader's car to determine who should win."

Throughout the Classics season so far, Pogacar, van Aert and van der Poel have dominated. "In Flanders there are always surprises, but we expect that it will be between those riders next week," says Wynants, casting an eye to the upcoming Tour des Flandres.