"It’s incredible and I don’t have the words to describe it" - Casper Pedersen quickly returns to winning ways after move to Soudal - Quick-Step

Casper Pedersen has had a strong few first years as a pro cyclist with Team DSM where he showed his talent for the one-day races. A rouleur, it's not easy to find favourable terrain for the Dane, but he has capitalized on a perfect opportunity today at the Figueira Champions Classic.

“The course was difficult, and we knew that already from the training that we had here on Saturday, but each time we did the climbs I felt better and better and managed to remain in the front group. I didn’t expect to arrive with this select group and fight for victory, but I did it with the amazing support of Rémi [Cavagna] and Ilan [van Wilder], they made it possible, and I am very grateful for that”, Pedersen said in a post-race interview.

Cavagna made a move in the penultimate lap which looked decisive, but although he and the escapee group was later caught, it allowed Pedersen to save his legs ahead of the final ascents where sharp attacks would test his legs. In a reduced group however Pedersen was present, and had the freshness to deliver a powerful sprint where he directly defeated Rune Herregodts and Marijn van den Berg.

“It’s just my third race with the team and we always raced for the win, which tells you a lot about the mentality everyone has," Pedersn concluded. "I love it here. The fact that this victory brought Soudal Quick-Step closer to another milestone just shows what a long, incredible and rich history this squad has. It’s incredible and I don’t have the words to describe it."