Bahrain Victorious set for “In Flanders Fields”
# Bahrain Victorious Prepares for the Classic “In Flanders Fields”
The Belgian cobbled campaign is set to unfold on Sunday, March 29, with the iconic Classic “In Flanders Fields,” which will take place from Middelkerke to Wevelgem. This year marks a significant change as the race, formerly known as Gent-Wevelgem, kicks off in Middelkerke for the first time, situated on the scenic North Sea coast. While the initial 70 kilometers represent a fresh route, the remaining 241 km largely maintains the traditional features that define this challenging race.
Bahrain Victorious Sports Director Michał Gołaś elaborated on the newly introduced circuit: “The first part of the race is completely new and mostly exposed. Windy conditions can make the race demanding from the start, but our focus will be on conserving the leaders’ energy for the second part.” He indicates the importance of strategic positioning, especially as the race ventures into the exposure-prone De Moeren area before transitioning inland towards the hilly sections. “We need to commit as a team early on, as the wind can really change the dynamics of the race,” he added.
Post-De Moeren, the course resumes a more traditional layout, incorporating the well-known climbs of Scherpenberg, Baneberg, Monteberg, and Kemmelberg—where competitors will ascend three times across various gravel sectors. The concluding challenge takes racers approximately 35 kilometers from the top of the last Kemmelberg to the finish line in Wevelgem, maintaining the established run-in to the finish.
Gołaś emphasized the importance of teamwork and strategy in the race: “Our plan is to position our leaders, Alec Segaert and Matej Mohorič, well before the first climbs and the gravel sectors, and then follow the key moves.” He acknowledged that the climbs around the Kemmelberg would be pivotal in determining the final selection and highlighted the need for calmness and persistence, noting, “It’s a very long race, and differences can still be made in the final 20 km.”
Alec Segaert, having showcased his potential during the recent E3 Saxo Classic, will take the lead as Bahrain Victorious’ primary strategist, supported by Matej Mohorič: “Alec showed a very good level at E3, and this race suits him well. He will be our leader, with Matej as co-leader, and we will adapt depending on how the race develops.”
The team will also feature four debutants: Borgo, Skerl, Stockwell, and Miquel. Gołaś noted the significance of these newcomers, especially Miquel, as he embarks on his initial venture on Belgian roads, “if he makes it to the final and the race comes down to a reduced sprint, he could have his opportunity.”
As the team gears up for this prestigious Classic, all eyes will be on Bahrain Victorious to see how they navigate the formidable challenges ahead.
