Philippe Gilbert cautious with Wout van Aert's chances at Tour of Flanders: "He was good in E3 but he was not the strongest"

Philippe Gilbert is one of the most experienced and successful classics riders in modern cycling, and has won the Tour of Flanders in 2017. He's analyzed the chances of Wout van Aert as well as recalling some of his own memories from the race.

“Let’s hope Wout van Aert but I’m not sure. He was good in E3 but he was not the strongest," Gilbert said in an interview with Eurosport. "Let’s see. I think he went deep at Gent Wevelgem in the bad weather so let’s hope he is recovered, but I have no guarantee of that. Pogacar and Van der Poel are ready and really strong. I hope that Van Aert can win. I am not so sure.”

The fight for the win is expected to revolve around Wout van Aert, Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogacar. The trio have thrived over recent weeks and at the E3 Saxo Classic seemed to be a level above the competition. Each of them have their own weak spots however, and none can be called the true man to beat this Sunday.

“For me, it (Flanders, ed.) has always been a dream. I was always dreaming about winning Flanders. Even when I was under 23, I was coming through the wind and sprint, and I finished fourth. I was already thinking, ‘ah, that was a chance to win Flanders at 23 and I missed it," the Belgian legend shared.

“Then when I was turning pro, I was twice on the podium, but still not winning. Finally, I won and it was a big symbol because I also had the Belgium jersey. It's a big symbol because we know that there are always political fights between two languages and two cultures. But in the end, we are all from the same country, so I was really proud of that," Gilbert concluded.

The team in which he's won Flanders, current day Soudal - Quick-Step, will hope to join the fun when the race explodes but it is currently under difficulties. Nevertheless several riders will be aiming for a result and to improve on their results this spring.