"If Remco had still been here, he would have had great support from me" - Ilan van Wilder improves form and looks to enter GC battle

Ilan Van Wilder showed yet another terrific performance in the tough mountain test comprising of over 5000 altitude meters with a cherry on top 21km climb up Monte Bondone. Stage 16 was not one for weak natures and the 22-year old Belgian gave a lesson of patience to many more experienced riders, finishing 6th on the day as "the best among the rest", winning the second group of favourites' sprint.

Van Wilder climbed up the slopes of Monte Bondone with the world best. “It was a difficult day, but I had good legs. The moment UAE Emirates accelerated with Vine and Ulissi I knew I had to let go and ride my pace. I've learned that over the past two seasons and it works very well, because a lot of guys have blown themselves up and I picked them up later," quotes Het Nieuwsblad. “I could then continue my effort until the finish.”

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Van Wilder is therefore in great shape, but is still disappointed that his leader Remco Evenepoel had to drop out with Covid. “I now mainly think: if Remco had still been here, he would have had great support from me. But it is what it is.”

Following the retirement of Davide Ballerini, Soudal Quick-Step has only got two riders in the race. Van Wilder hopes to make it to Rome. “I've got a little bit of a cold and stuff, so it's important to recover well. I'm just glad to be there. I try to have fun, even if it's not easy. I'm glad I have good legs."

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