“Such a pity” - Annemiek Van Vleuten's final Tour of Flanders ends in disappointment after crash

The long and storied career of Annemiek van Vleuten has had numerous high points. On Sunday, a rare low point came to pass however as the 40-year-old in her final Tour of Flanders saw a crash rule her out or the battle for victory, eventually coming home 27th.

“Such a pity in my last Tour of Flanders. I was well positioned on the Trek train. Until everyone started riding on the edge and I fell off the road," the two time former Tour of Flanders winner explained post-race. "Then you know it's going to be difficult."

“On the Koppenberg I saw everyone walking and then I knew it was over. Fortunately, the damage is not too bad: I have not suffered anything unpleasant and am fit in time for the Amstel," van Vleuten continues.

“There were so many people who encouraged me. I could still enjoy that. I drove my best 60-minute value ever, but that won't do you any good if you don't ride at the front. You want to go with Lotte and test yourself, but that was not possible.”