José De Cauwer - " Van Aert got a bigger hit from Mathieu's win in Milano-Sanremo than Van der Poel gets a hit from Wout"

Given the level of competition and intensity of the battle at the E3 Saxo Classic, it is not far-fetched to predict that the upcoming Tour of Flanders will feature an explosive and unparalleled display of cycling prowess.

Commentators Karl Vannieuwkerke and José De Cauwer gave their opinions on the E3 Saxo Classic and provided insights into what to look forward the next week. Wout van Aert achieved his second victory in a row in E3. He humbly admitted afterwards that he was "not the best man in the race. I think the majority of viewers thought that Van der Poel would win in the sprint. The Dutchman made the best impression along the way,” started Vannieuwkerke.

Cauwer replied, "When he started the sprint, he thought he could win. Pogacar didn't: he tried to jump away twice, but he didn't go full. I would have thought that Van der Poel would have let Pogacar drive because Wout had to come. Mathieu must have felt very confident."

Wout van Aert and Van der Poel's competitive relationship carries over from cyclocross to road cycling. Commentator Vannieuwkerke poses the question of whether Van der Poel's recent defeat will harm his confidence, and Cauwer weighs in.

“I think Van Aert got a bigger hit from Mathieu's win in Milan-Sanremo than Van der Poel gets a hit from Wout here. But they have both come a little closer together. Mathieu slides off his throne a bit, Wout comes a little closer."

Van der Poel and Van Aert pose formidable competition for Pogacar towards the end of the race. To secure a victory, he suggests that Pogacar takes the initiative and attack early. “He can't go to the line with Mathieu or Wout. Now, Asgreen also wins the Ronde at a time when you think Mathieu is going to win. The E3 is already tough, but the Ronde is another 60 miles more,” concluded Cauwer.