"It was a shock" - Michael Valgren admits surprise after demotion to EF Education-EasyPost's development team

It's only a few years ago that Michael Valgren was on top of the world having won both the Amstel Gold Race and Omloop Het Nieuwsblad in 2018. Following a horror injury last June however the Dane is being forced to start all over again.

“I am gradually back to 90 percent of the rider I used to be. The power in my legs is back," the 31-year-old tells Het Nieuwsblad. Although a return to racing is still not yet confirmed, Valgren has been informed by EF Education-EasyPost that when he does get back into the peloton it won't be at World Tour level, instead he will join up with the developmental team.

Read also

Egan Bernal at risk of missing Paris-Nice

"It was a shock," he admits when asked for his initial reaction to the demotion. “I am a rider who wants to ride big races. Then you don't want to hear that you are no longer a World Tour rider. But eventually, I understand. It would take a while before I would be a rider who could help the team win again."

“Through the development team I can gradually return, in smaller competitions. Without forcing me. And if that works, is the deal, can I still go back to the World Tour team," he continues. "I am convinced that I will succeed. That thought keeps me going. I'm still in love with the race."

Read also

"It is time for Van Aert to win those Monuments" - Jose De Cauwer backing Wout van Aert for spring success