Philippe Gilbert, the Lotto Soudal rider, is set to make a comeback at the La Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège races. Gilbert, who previously won both races in 2011, took a short rest period before resuming his training and is now ready to compete at the highest level.
Gilbert stated, “Following several days without the bike, I was able to train well and I am really happy to be at the start of La Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. I needed a short period of rest, but now I am ready to race again on the highest level”.
Despite a minor setback due to a crash during a training ride, Gilbert adapted his training plans and managed to log six-plus hours of training. As he prepares for the Ardennes Classics, Gilbert aims to have fun and seize any opportunities that come his way.
Gilbert explained, “Of course, I had quite an unusual run-up to the Ardennes Classics this year. Due to the short break, it’s difficult to say where I am, shape-wise, compared to the other riders. But I don’t fear these races are coming a little too soon…However, I am really eager to race. What concerns my ambitions, I am cautious. Let’s just go for the best result possible.”
Speaking about the La Flèche Wallonne race, Gilbert noted, “There isn’t one clear favorite this year, which will make for an open race…In the past, Rik Verbrugghe and our sports director Mario Aerts have shown that it isn’t a mission impossible to win from a breakaway…The one who is able to suffer the most, wins La Flèche Wallonne”.
As for the tactics involved in tackling the Mur de Huy climb, Gilbert added, “However, there aren’t many tactics involved when climbing the Mur de Huy. It is one of the toughest finishes of the season and certainly an honest climb. The one who is able to suffer the most, wins La Flèche Wallonne”, concludes Philippe Gilbert.
The lineup for the Lotto Soudal team at the La Flèche Wallonne race includes Philippe Gilbert, Sébastien Grignard, Tomasz MarczyÅłski, Sylvain Moniquet, Stefano Oldani, Tosh Van der Sande, and Tim Wellens.
