“It’s a shame Wout didn’t make the podium, but we should be proud of the way we raced “ - Visma gain confidence in strong Tour of Flanders performance

After a turbulent fortnight under heavy media scrutiny (particularly in Belgium) Team Visma | Lease a Bike showed real signs of recovery at the Tour of Flanders. While they narrowly missed out on the podium, their performance marked a much-needed boost during a difficult period for the team.

Wout van Aert, who has been at the centre of the criticism, delivered a gutsy ride, matching the best riders in the world blow for blow in the closing stages. Despite not making the top three, his form and resilience were clear.

“We rode a very good race,” said head of racing Grischa Niermann in a team press release. “It’s a shame Wout didn’t make the podium, but we should be proud of the way we raced. We were present at the front, with Tiesj anticipating early and Wout and Matteo both riding at a high level.

“All three of them looked strong. It looked like Wout was the second strongest in the race near the end, but I think the result tells the truth. He managed to respond again and again to the attacks from Mathieu and Tadej. That’s a good sign. It shows that, as a team, we’re in a good place — in both depth and quality. Today gives us confidence for what’s still to come.”