"I can say that I am back": Olav Kooij wins again at Boucles de la Mayenne to confirm Tour de France ambitions

Olav Kooij made a successful return to racing at the Boucles de la Mayenne, taking two stage victories and putting an end to any doubts following a long battle with illness. The Decathlon CMA CGM Team sprinter showed he has recovered his form by winning the third and final stage, keeping his focus firmly on his main goal for the summer.

After crossing the finish line, Kooij talked about his successful week and how the final sprint played out in a post-race interview. "It has been a very good week. We knew that two sprint finishes were on the schedule. Winning them both is the best possible result."

"Today, the pace was very high, especially on the final circuit. The course was quite technical, so you had to stay focused to keep a good position at the front. I managed to do that. In the final corner, I was ideally placed and, when I launched my sprint, I still managed to pass several riders."

Having spent several months away from competition due to health issues, the Dutch rider explained how much these victories mean to him and how they validate his recovery.

"After a period like the one I went through, you remember how beautiful and special winning is. And winning is never easy. If I win two stages here, I can say that I am back."

With his first race block completed successfully, Kooij is looking forward to the biggest race of the season. He noted that while his preparation must continue smoothly, he is confident in his ability to compete at the highest level.

"The Tour de France remains my big goal. We first had to see how things would go upon my return to competition. Everything needs to continue moving in the right direction, but if that is the case, I think I can reach a level that will also allow me to win at the Tour."