"It wasn’t planned for me to be part of the early break. I just saw a Lotto-Soudal rider going on the attack and I decided to join him. The real idea behind my move was that there might be fireworks on the climb, maybe some battle behind that would help someone to catch us from the bunch… but it didn’t happen. Besides, we knew we stood no chances with such a strong wind. It is so hard to beat a team like Deceuninck-Quick Step when they are chasing you... Anyway, it was nice to be at the front of the race - especially when we got some tailwind! I enjoyed my day, appreciating people cheering for us from the roadside. The combativity prize is fine, but my real goal at this race is to win a stage for my brother."
