"Remco Evenepoel was very strong, it's quite impressive!" - Julian Alaphilippe

Julian Alaphilippe has in the past had ambitions to win Liège-Bastogne-Liège. This spring that proved impossible as he was injured once again, this time at the Tour of Flanders. He made his return at La Doyenne where he was able to play a role in Remco Evenepoel's win.

"A little disappointed for Tadej Pogacar when I heard he had fallen. It didn't change much for us, we stayed focused on our plan," Alaphilippe said in a post-race interview. "Remco Evenepoel was very strong, it's quite impressive! He rarely misses when he feels like that. I'm glad I helped out the team, I came for that. It's a good feeling, it feels good."

The Frenchman crossed the line in 86th place, however he was instrumental for Soudal - Quick-Step's plans. Despite being suited to the explosive efforts, Alaphilippe put himself to the front on several ascents early on, setting a constant and high pace. As Evenepoel looked to attack in the Côte de la Redoute, Alaphilippe was the third rider ahead of the World Champion for several kilometers - together with Louis Vervaeke and Ilan van Wilder setting up the attack.

Although far from his best form he was able to be a part of a successful day for the Belgian team. "What's next for me? A few days of recuperation, then I'll continue with some reconnaissance of the Tour de France, training camps at altitude, and certainly the [Critérium du] Dauphiné," he concluded, as he looks to bounce back and return to victories at the highest level.