Michael Vanthourenhout rides in European champion jersey for first time - "It was cool. It was special to ride around with the jersey"

It was Michael Vanthourenhout's first race in the European champion jersey in Superprestige Niel. Although the Belgian couldn’t manage to secure the top spot, he did finish third.

"It was cool. It was special to ride around with the jersey," he told WielerFlits. He continues, "But you also feel some pressure of having to chase. That was noticeable for the first time today when Laurens rode away. But I tried to do my job and I think third was the highest possible. I think I can be satisfied. Especially after this week, after everything I went through after getting such a win."

Vanthourenhout says the jersey won’t put much pressure on him in the coming races. Having the jersey does not necessarily mean winning every race."I know my place. That's just always doing my best and always riding for that podium. It's not because I became European champion last week that I suddenly have to win every cross. It's good the way it is and I'm always happy when I'm on the podium," concluded Vanthourenhout.

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