"People might not notice it, but it's true that I had some difficult years" - Hugo Hofstetter happy with third at Kuurne - Bruxelles - Kuurne

The cycling season is now in full swing, with Opening Weekend marking the start of the spring classics. Soren Waerenskjold claimed victory at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, while Jasper Philipsen triumphed at Kuurne – Bruxelles – Kuurne.

After a hard-fought race at Kuurne – Bruxelles - Kuurne, Hugo Hofstetter shared his thoughts on his podium finish with Cycling Pro Net, highlighting the kind of racing that suits him best.

"Yeah, it's hard after very hard races too. That's what really suits me. When the race was hard, I manage to be a little fresh in the final because I recover quite well from all the efforts of the race, so it's really what suits me more than just pure sprints at the end of an easy stage. So no, I'm super happy today and thanks to the team because they did a great job."

Originally, Hofstetter was not designated as the team’s lead sprinter for the day, but circumstances changed.

"Normally it was Jake who was supposed to sprint. He didn't feel great at the top, and I really had good legs. I followed the blows in the bumps, and each time I was in front—well, more or less in front, except in the breakaway of course. They rode really, really well."

Positioning in the final moments was crucial, and Hofstetter executed his sprint strategy well.

"I knew that the last turn to the left was super important because after that, it goes so fast from the turn to the finish that I absolutely wanted to be in the very first positions. That's what they did, they did a super job.

“After that, I did a first sprint to get back in the wheel of Olav and in the end, it was a good day. Because after the sprint, it was almost over. I think it was Caden Groves who did the lead-out for Jasper. I really waited until the very last moment to try to overtake Olav, but yeah, it's going too fast."

Reflecting on his recent form and the confidence boost this result provides, Hofstetter acknowledged the challenges he has faced.

"Frankly, I'm really happy because I'm coming back from when even relatively far. People might not notice it, but it's true that I had some difficult years. I had a big crash at the Giro last year, I had an operation, and it took me two months to come back.

“At the end of last season, I was back in good condition, but it was still super difficult. So yeah, today, coming 3rd feels really good. It means a lot."

Looking ahead, Hofstetter has a clear target in mind.

"Well, winning Le Samyn. I did 2nd when I had done 3rd here, so I hope to win this time."