"If we race like this then I'm sure we'll pick up a win at some point" - Samuel Watson impresses with 5th for attacking INEOS Grenadiers at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad

Despite not having a standout leader for Opening Weekend 2025, the INEOS Grenadiers were active throughout Omloop Het Nieuwsblad on Saturday afternoon. In the end, new signing Samuel Watson, finished best placed, taking 5th in the final sprint for the line.

After Joshua Tarling had launched a daring attack earlier in the day, the Welsh powerhouse had managed to get back to the front of the bunch inside the final kilometre, giving Watson a very impressive leadout. In the race for the line though, the 23-year-old Brit ultimately found himself just outpaced by the likes of Soren Waerenskjold, Paul Magnier and Jasper Philipsen.

"It was quite chaotic before the Eikenberg and I just had to keep my mind in the game, keep fighting. I made it past all the carnage, and from there, the legs did the talking a bit," reflects Watson in quotes posted to the INEOS Grenadiers' official social media pages. "I felt super good today and yeah, I was racing right at the front of the race which was nice. Whacked it in the sprint, opened it up maybe a little too early, but held on for 5th place, which was nice to start the Classics. If we race like this then I'm sure we'll pick up a win at some point!"

Read also

"A positive day, but we've got some improving to do" - Tom Pidcock retains optimism despite quiet Omloop Het Nieuwsblad

"I just wasn't feeling well in the race" - Wout van Aert's slow start to road season continues with Omloop Het Nieuwsblad disappointment

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Unlock your ultimate cycling experience—subscribe today for access to the latest cycling news

Subscribe