Philipsen and Soren Kragh Andersen will be two strong weapons for the Belgian team this afternoon in Flanders, but the sprinter is aware that the action should start early. “I will try to follow initially. If I'm still there after the Bosberg, then a lot is possible. But yes, riders like Wout van Aert also know that and will try to open up the race earlier," he tells.
"In the final there is wind at the back, which is to the advantage of the attackers. That makes it more difficult. But I certainly see possibilities in the Omloop. Otherwise it would be stupid to start.” In summary, combining that with the forecasted rain and low temperatures, it is an edition that is in no way suited to a sprint. But Philipsen, second at last year's Paris-Roubaix, has proven to be more than just a sprinter.
“My strength still lies in my sprint. This also became apparent last year. But it is true that I want to continue to take a step in the classics every year. I want to see how far I can get," he shares. For that reason this spring he will aim for new races such as the Tour of Flanders and Amstel Gold Race, which feature more climbing than his usual goal.
His big victory goals however lie naturally in some less difficult races. "I think there are definitely some races I can win this year. If I can win a classic. That is also the goal. Then I would be very satisfied. I think a monument would be too ambitious. But a classic like Gent-Wevelgem is also a big deal.”
Asked about his big rival and compatriot
Arnaud De Lie, Philipsen concludes: "No, Arnaud is someone who is really strong in bad weather. He also has the courage to endure that. For me it can go both ways in bad weather. I have ridden well in bad weather, but also in bad weather.”
