"We will have a different race with Tadej Pogacar" - Arnaud De Lie looks to defend GP de Quebec title

Arnaud De Lie is evolving into an incredibly talented classics rider; a sprinter that climbs short hills equally as well. This versatile skillset saw him take a strong win at the GP de Québec last year and today he will attempt to defend his title but has different challenges to overcome, such as the presence of Tadej Pogacar.

“My victory here in Québec last year gave me a confidence boost for some races," he said in a press release, regarding last year's triumph. "You could see that in the Bretagne Classic, where I was also making the race on the climbs. It also gave me a mental boost. In the final here last year I was positioned very far actually, but then to still win makes you think about your potential. It was emotional and the team did great work the whole day.”

This year he has had a strong season and recently won the queen stage of the Renewi Tour; a day with plenty climbs of steep cobbled climbs, against Tim Wellens. It is safe to say that his form is on point coming to Canada and he is an absolute favourite to win in Québec. But he is aware that it will be a very different challenge:

“I think this year we will have a different race with Tadej Pogačar, we will have to be up there in the front earlier as I think the race will open up earlier. I am here, but also Maxim (Van Gils) is a specialist in one-day races. He is fast on the finish and can follow the best, having him here by my side is a big advantage as I can’t answer all attacks myself and need to keep something in my legs for the sprint. Sunday in Montréal is a race that suits Maxim better than me, if I can help him there I will definitely do so.”

“I’m super happy to be here again. I rested well since I have arrived here and don’t feel jetlagged," he added. The Belgian is one of the headliners of this weekend: "We want to go for the victory again. At the Bemer Cyclassics I didn’t have a great day, but I hope to find my good feeling again here in Canada. It’s a long race of 200 kilometers, you need to come fresh to the final. Especially at the finish you hear the crowds going crazy, it’s a fantastic atmosphere and the people along the road give you an extra boost.”