"I'm definitely not one of the favourites" - Wout van Aert downplays his chances of taking the rainbow jersey

Wout van Aert downplays his chances of taking the win on the morning of the World Championships. Perhaps a bit of a bluff taking into consideration his main favourite status for the past three worlds, today in Glasgow he will have another opportunity to try and strike big.

“It may well have an impact. It's not what I'm used to, but I hope it gives me wings," van Aert told Wielerflits, comment on his preparation towards the race. "I think I have a good chance today, but I'm definitely not one of the favourites. I rode a good Tour, but maybe a little less than last year. The two weeks that followed were also different than I am used to. It remains to be seen how I will feel, hopefully it will work out well.”

Van Aert is one cog in the big wheel that is the Belgian national team. Alongside him, both Remco Evenepoel and Jasper Philipsen are clear contenders for a victory, whilst the team also features many weapons in the likes of Victor Campenaerts, Tiesj Benoot and Jasper Stuyven. With this amount of depth and a very technical and explosive circuit it's certain that they will be amongst the attackers, the Jumbo-Visma rider included.

As is the case in the classics, Van Aert will most likely not try to rely on his sprint but instead ride an aggressive race in Glasgow. Having the presence of Jasper Philipsen could end up being key in unleashing a potential offensive which could see the race swing his way.