“The Haaghoek feels like the real start of the classic season”: Jasper Stuyven and the Lidl Trek squad ready for the opening weekend

Toms Skujiņš delivered one of the most discussed moments in Omloop last year when he dropped Van Aert on the Berendries. It was a breakthrough trip, even if the end result did not match the performance. “I have great memories of the last year – I and the team surprised how strong I was. The result may have been a bit disappointing, so I hope that I can improve this time, ”he says.

This year the Latvian is looking forward to another shot in the race, which is supported by a strong Lidl Trek squad. “We have some people who already show a great shape. Mathias Vacek turned out to be in Algarve, climbed well and appeared in the time trips. There are some younger boys who climbed, and if you combine them with experienced drivers who have already proven themselves, I really think that we have an even stronger team than last year. “

Jasper Stuyven also feels optimistic about the team's potential, although he recognizes that an important driver is missing. “We have a stronger team on paper than last year, but it is unfortunate that Søren Kragh is outside and outside. That could mean that we are about the same level as last year. Nevertheless, everyone has another year of experience in the belt, so hopefully we have improved. Last year the entire team had a perfect winter and arrived in top shape. Hopefully this is the case again this year, then we will definitely be just as strong. But we have to wait and see. “

Stuyven is individually satisfied with its current form. “My condition is similar to that where it was at that time last year. Does that mean that I will be at my climax for omloop? Probably not, but the foundation is there. A lot will depend on how I feel on race day. “

One thing that he is sure is his favorite part of the course. “The Haaghoek remains one of my favorite sectors. We exist several times, the crowds are always big and it really feels like the real start of the season among fans. “

In addition to Stuyven and Skujiņš, Lidl-Trek brings a balanced and powerful squad in Omloop Het Nieuwsblad. Tim 'El Trector' Declercq and Daan Hoole are the two large engines of the team that drive the pace and keep the race under control. Edward Theuns adds a wealth of experiences on these demanding Flemish roads and knows exactly what it takes to navigate the chaos of the classics, while young Tim Torn Tornberg gets his first taste of spring classics.

Mathias Vacek is another driver who tries to make a name for himself. “It is really something special to be part of such a strong team,” he says. “We have so many strong guys and I feel the responsibility to prove myself in the classics. There is pressure, but it mainly gives me motivation to do my best. “The young Czech talent has already shown a strong form of the early season and is determined to contribute to the success of the team. “The atmosphere between the drivers is great. We get along well and work together in the direction of the same goal. “

For Vacek, the race in Flanders is different from everything else on the calendar. “The classics here differ completely from any other breed. The paving stones, the narrow streets, the fans, the rough weather … these are the special races of the year. It is a complete entertainment from start to finish. Everything can happen at any time. You have to stay in front and hug the adrenaline. I love driving here, even though these are the toughest races of the season. You can be prepared as well as possible, but you never know how the race develops. I can't wait to get started. “

With a mixture of experienced managers, power package domestiques and rising talents, Lidl-Trek goes into the opening weekend with confidence and ambition. The drivers strive to start the classic season and test their hard work on the Flemish roads. With the passionate Belgian fans who create an electrical atmosphere, the team is ready to face the challenge. We hope to see many followers in Kuipke in Ghent in Ghent and to line the course, cheer us on while we take on the first big race of the year.