Wout van Aert is unusually calm and thoughtful on the eve of the Tour of Flanders. The Visma-Lease a Bike rider, who is not known for being particularly exuberant, showed even more calm than usual when facing questions from journalists.

Only two days after his disappointing performance at Dwars door Vlaanderen, where he was the protagonist of a clear tactical failure, Van Aert had to deal with the criticism he has received in the last week. He calmly answered questions about his physical condition, the cramps he suffered on Wednesday and the possibility of sacrificing himself for a fitter teammate.

"My confidence was not affected on Wednesday, quite the opposite," said Van Aert.

"I'm here with more confidence than last week. I felt much better than in previous races."

The Belgian rider will have to deal on Sunday with two big favourites like Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogačar, both of whom have already won the Flemish classic. Van Aert, who has not yet conquered the Monument he most desires, maintains a realistic approach:

"It will take a lot to stay at their level. They are clearly the two big favourites. I hope to have the best legs on Sunday and be able to be there with them."

Despite pressure from the Belgian media, Van Aert reiterates that winning Flanders is "not an obsession".

With the support of strong teammates such as Benoot, Jorgenson and van Baarle, Visma-Lease a Bike presents itself as one of the most competitive teams at the start, ready to play its cards in this edition of the Tour of Flanders.

Sprint Cycling Photo