"Such a stupid move" - Mads Pedersen criticised for 'reckless' tactics at Tour of Flanders

After crashing just days before, Mads Pedersen wasn't at full strength heading into the Tour of Flanders 2024. Nevertheless, the Dane still more than gave it his all, riding an aggressive race and even going on the attack. Was this the smartest move though?

Well, according to Norwegian cycling expert and TV2 analyst, Magnus Drivenes, his fellow Scandinavian's tactics erred more on the side of foolishness than being brave. "It's a bit reckless riding," he assesses. "All credit for setting fire to the race, but with a view to getting a good result, he simply rode unwisely."

Speaking to TV2, Uno-X Mobility team manager and multiple-time Tour de France stage winner, Thor Hushovd also shared his confusion on what the tactics of Pedersen were supposed to achieve. "When Mads Pedersen made such a stupid move and emptied himself completely to be 20-25 seconds ahead of the field, it was a gift package," says Hushovd. "Mathieu van der Poel took it."

"If we're going to use hindsight, I shouldn't have done it, but it wouldn't have been a top result today anyway," Pedersen himself reflected post-race. "I took the chance and tried, but I wasn't close."