"Sometimes life is very unfair" - Wout van Aert reveals Visma rode Finestre stage already with the news from Gesink family

This week, the partner of long-standing member of Team Visma | Lease a Bike Robert Gesink has passed away. Wout van Aert and the whole team had heard the news before it became public, and raced in the queen stage with Daisy Gesink in mind.

"We had already received the news from Robert on Friday. We knew what was going on, but no one expected Daisy to die so quickly," van Aert shared in an emotional interview with Sporza.

It is reported that the passing was due to aggravated illness. Gesink retired from pro cycling last year, but after over decade and a half with the team, he has remained part of it even though he does no longer compete professionally. "It is very hard to keep your mind on the race. It is in the back of your mind. Sometimes life is very unfair".

The Belgian and Simon Yates put in a formidable ride this Saturday to be able to bring the team's spirits up with a much needed victory, but ultimately it could only do so much. "They are both great cycling fans and I think they followed the race until the last few days and took their distraction from it".

Lastly, van Aert hopes the team can deliver another winning performance this Sunday afternoon to be able to pay a further tribute. "I think we can do Robert a favour by delivering a great performance here today. Olav Kooij struggled through this tough Giro especially to be able to sprint here".