Scheldeprijs sets stage for Bahrain Victorious sprinters
# Bahrain Victorious Gears Up for Scheldeprijs: A Sprinters’ Showdown Awaits
As the cycling season heats up between the renowned spring classics, the Scheldeprijs (1.Pro) stands out as a prime opportunity for sprinters to shine. This year, the race is set for Wednesday, April 8, and marks a significant milestone—the 100th anniversary of its finish line in Schoten, a legacy that traces back to its inception in 1907.
The 205.2 km route thrives on its pan-flat profile and traverses the windswept Zeeland region in the Netherlands, where strategic echelons often challenge the peloton. Fortunately for competitors this year, wind conditions are not anticipated to play a decisive role, paving the way for a likely bunch sprint at the end. Riders will tackle a local circuit of three 17 km laps, featuring a challenging cobbled sector on Broekstraat, that will be crossed one last time just 6.5 km from the finish.
Bahrain Victorious will be led by Phil Bauhaus, who is eager to return to the competitive scene after his withdrawal from the Ronde van Brugge due to illness. “I did this race around 10 years ago, three times, and it’s one that really suits sprinters. There’s a reason it used to be called the ‘sprinters’ World Championships.’ I was a bit sick at Ronde van Brugge, but I’ve recovered well and I’m looking forward to racing again,” Bauhaus remarked. He expressed confidence in his youthful team’s potential for a strong showing, adding, “With Zak as co-leader, we have another strong option, and we’ll try to make it a good day for the team.”
Žak Eržen, also eager for the challenge, arrives at Scheldeprijs with a solid performance history from recent Belgian races, including the Ename Samyn Classic and GP Monseré, where he achieved sixth place. “I’m super happy to do Scheldeprijs. I think it’s a nice opportunity for me as a fast rider, so I’m really looking forward to it, also as preparation ahead of Paris–Roubaix,” Eržen noted. He will be joined by teammates Matevž Govekar, Daniel Skerl, and Vlad Van Mechelen, with Consolidani also stepping up from the Development Team for his WorldTour debut.
Nikolas Maes, Sports Director for Bahrain Victorious, offered insights into the team’s strategy: “It’s a race where a bunch sprint is the most likely outcome, as the parcours is quite simple: no wind, wide roads and no obstacles. However, an easy start often means a very intense finale.” He emphasized the importance of positioning, commenting, “Getting into position for the sprint requires surgical precision. In the final straight, we’ll take our chances in a fast and straightforward sprint, aiming for a result between the top five and top ten.”
As the sprinters gear up for this prestigious classic, all eyes will be on Bahrain Victorious, ready to assert themselves in the heart of Belgium’s cycling tradition.
