Bahrain Victorious looks for success at Antwerp Port Epic

# Bahrain Victorious Eyes Victory at Antwerp Port Epic

Following Alessandro Borgo’s remarkable triumph at the GP Criquielion, Bahrain Victorious is set to enter another challenging Belgian race with heightened confidence. The team will line up on Monday, May 25, for the Antwerp Port Epic, a one-day event renowned for its demanding and technical course.

This 195-kilometre race features 28.5 kilometres of cobblestones and 41.5 kilometres of unpaved roads, starting in the port area and finishing at Schengenplein in Antwerp. Notable sectors include the gravel roads of Zone Kabeljauw (1,515 m) and Opstalpolder Zuid (1,635 m), along with three challenging cobbled sectors that riders will face three times during the race. In the decisive final stretch, athletes will encounter the formidable Zone De Leeuw (2,405 m) twice, as well as the crucial unpaved sections of Boterseweg (1,495 m) and Blokweg (1,695 m), which are likely to influence the outcome.

Sports Director Nikolas Maes shared insights ahead of the race, stating: “We are aiming to perform with Matevž Govekar, Pau Miquel, and Alessandro Borgo in what is really a gravel-style race. It’s a race where bad luck, crashes, and positioning can make a huge difference, but I believe with the team we have we can battle with the best riders.”

Maes elaborated on the technical nature of the race: “It’s not an extremely hard race in terms of climbing, but it’s very technical and constantly demanding because of the gravel sectors, so we need to stay attentive all day. Matevž will be our main sprint option, but if the race becomes harder and more selective, then Alessandro and maybe also Pau can play their cards in the finale. I expect a reduced sprint from around 30 to 40 riders, and after the way we raced today, we definitely aim to fight for another victory.”

Alongside Borgo, Govekar, and Miquel, the Bahrain Victorious lineup includes Capra, Skerl, Van der Meulen, and Stolic, all gearing up to tackle the unique challenges of the Antwerp Port Epic. As the team heads into this race, their spirits are high, fueled by recent success and the promise of a demanding course ahead.