Mathieu Van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck) wins the third stage of the Renewi Tour from Aalter to Geraardsbergen (181.8km).

After an initial attack by Van Gils and Van der Poel, around ten riders emerged from the leading group and joined the large initial breakaway.

On the second pass over the Muur , Van der Poel attacks again and creates a gap: De Lie and Wellens hold off behind him and, on the long, flat stretch that follows, manage to rejoin. The three steadily increase their lead over Bettiol, Del Grosso, Dewulf, and Bettiol.

On the final wall, De Lie kept up his pace and crushed Wellens; Van der Poel emerged 200 meters from the finish and, with great difficulty, edged ahead of the Belgian Lotto rider. Wellens finished 3rd.

In the general classification, however, it is De Lie who takes the lead from Van der Poel.

ORDER OF ARRIVAL

1 VAN DER POEL Mathieu Alpecin - Deceuninck 3:50:53

2 DE LIE Arnaud Lotto ,,

3 WELLENS Tim UAE Team Emirates - XRG 0:12

4 DEL GROSSO Tibor Alpecin - Deceuninck 0:34

5 BETTIOL Alberto XDS Astana Team ,,

6 WRIGHT Fred Bahrain - Victorious,,

7 LAURANCE Axel INEOS Grenadiers 0:42

8 VERMEERSCH Gianni Alpecin - Deceuninck ,,

9 BITTNER Pavel Team Picnic PostNL ,,

10 KOOIJ Olav Team Visma | Lease a Bike,,