Classic and time trial specialist Stefan Küng is preparing to take part in his ninth Omloop Het Nieuwsblad this Saturday. At 31, the Swiss rider from Groupama-FDJ has enough experience to know that it is best not to make too many predictions about this opening race.

Although his best finish at Omloop is a modest ninth in 2020, Küng has impressive results in similar races that speak to his worth: podiums at E3 and Dwars door Vlaanderen, a fifth and sixth place at the Tour of Flanders, and since 2022 he has always placed in the top five at Paris-Roubaix, with a third place as his best result.

Cautious approach to the first classic

During the Volta ao Algarve, his only race before the Omloop, Küng preached caution: "It's the first race of the season, you work hard all winter but you never know exactly how you are. You have an idea, but it's always important to get back to racing and focus on this start of the season."

New preparation strategy

"This year we changed our approach a bit, so we have to trust the process because the work done during the winter was good. I have no doubt that I will be ready for the Spring Classics", explained the Swiss rider, underlining that the big goals are in April.

Experience as an advantage

"As an athlete, you like to feel good in the first race of the season, but it's still just the first race. I think my experience helps me stay calmer than I would have been five years ago," Küng concluded, highlighting how the maturity he has gained allows him to better manage expectations and pressure.

Photo: Sprint Cycling Agency