"We knew for a long time that Van der Poel was the strongest" - Thibau Nys forced to settle for 3rd in Gavere

For the third time in three appearances this winter, Mathieu van der Poel took a dominant victory on Boxing Day in Gavere. Behind the world champion though, an intense battle between Michael Vanthourenhout and Thibau Nys took place for the 2nd spot on the podium.

In the end, former European champion Vanthourenhout held off the challenge of the current European champion Nys, despite the latter making a huge effort on the final lap to close the gap. "We knew for a long time that Van der Poel was the strongest and that it would be difficult," reflected Nys in his post-race interview. "But it is a pity that I could not secure second place. I felt the second or third strongest in the race today."

"I had my good and bad parts of the course. That climb suited me very well, also the part after that towards the second pits. After that I had a few bad spots where I had difficulty getting a grip on the rear wheel. Then it's difficult to make the connection," the Belgian added. "But I'm satisfied, on to tomorrow."

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