"This really is the best team in the world!" - Gerben Thijssen thanks Intermarché-Circus after outsprinting Ewan and Merlier at Ronde van Limburg

Gerben Thijssen continues to focus on minor races in the calendar, however each time he has won this year he has beaten World class sprinter competition. The Belgian outsprinted Caleb Ewan and Tim Merlier to victory at the Ronde van Limburg yesterday.

“This year it went as planned. Real kudos to the team. We have always taken our responsibility today, unlike some other teams. It is really fantastic to reward the men in this way”, Thijssen told Sporza in a post-race interview. “This really is the best team in the world! What a job, really great. That really gives me goosebumps, how they rode today. I didn't even feel that good, but I didn't tell anyone. However, if a sprinter sees the line… Then I change into a different person.”

Signed until 2025 with Intermarché-Circus-Wanty, the team has dedicated itself to the 24-year old, who together with Biniam Girmay got their own leadout. Whilst modest in comparison to other World Tour teams, the efficiency is proven by the results, and Thijssen took his third win of the year following triumphs at the GP Jean-Pierre Monseré and the Bredene Koksijde Classic. This is the second time this year he directly beats Ewan, a testament to his pure speed.

“I knew I had to go from the left, on the outside, because then you had the speed. However, Merlier went on the inside and then you lose all speed. I entered immediately after that. I thought about passing Tim before the corner, but finally decided to wait," he described the technical final sprint. "After the corner I started sprinting. Then you don't have to think anymore, but just go.”

The Belgian is on good form and aiming high for this June block of racing. He will race Heistse Pijl and Elfstedenronde Brugge leading up to the Baloise Belgium Tour, and then wrap off the block at the national championships - all of which races in his home country which provides a luxurious calendar for the fast men this time of year.

“I showed again today that I have speed in my legs, that I can also drive a power sprint. It is very special to ride a home race, especially because we only have one race in Limburg. Now the Heistse Pijl, Elfstedenronde and the Baloise Belgium Tour follow, followed by the national championships. The nationals are a really big goal. I'm going for a podium place there," he concluded.