Ilan Van Wilder proud of how the Giro d'Italia team did in just two riders: "We gave everything and we can be proud of how we rode"

The 12th in general classification is certainly not what Soudal - Quick-Step envisioned ahead of this year's Giro d'Italia. Nevertheless, there are still handful good things for the Belgian team, especially thanks to young Ilan Van Wilder who transferred great preparation into strong performance in final week and a nice position in GC.

"We came to the Giro with high expectations, had two stage victories and the pink jersey in our possession," Van Wilder starts his story a little disappointed. "After that we got a big blow when Remco had to leave the race and as if it wasn't bad enough, the cases of illness just kept adding up. Even with two riders we gave everything and we can be proud that we have arrived in Rome."

Van Wilder did not initially come to Italy to fight for a general classification. The 23-year-old climber showed great things, with two sixth places as the best result. The Belgian can be satisfied with results of his efforts. "I am satisfied with my 12th place, especially because it obviously wasn't my goal three weeks ago."