Etixx - Quick-Step rider Michal Golas won the 100th Kampioenschap van Vlaanderen. The Polish rider crossed the line second behind Jens Debusschere (Lotto Soudal), but the winner got relegated by the jury.
Golas was part of a lead group of 9 riders which attacked from the peloton in the local laps in Koolskamp. The peloton chased hard to reel the 9 escapees in, but pouring rain and the strong lead group prevented that.
Roy Curvers (Giant-Alpecin) tried his luck in the last kilometres, but was caught just before the final kilometre. In the sprint Debusschere and Dylan Groenewegen (Team Roompot) hit each other in the sprint. Groenewegen went down, while Debusschere crossed the line first in front of Golas.
The jury however decided to relegate Debusschere after consulting video images. In that way Golas became the first Polish rider to win the Kampioenschap van Vlaanderen. Golas earned the special 'Leeuwentrui' with his win.
“I`m happy about this victory. It wasn`t an easy final with the rain. It makes me proud to wear this jersey. I am a Polish guy, but I am riding for a Belgian team. I like this country and the people who really love cycling. This victory also shows that I`m on the right way for the Worlds. I have worked hard to do well. Tomorrow I will ride the Primus Classic Impanis - Van Petegem and then will focus on the Worlds to contribute to my national team”, said Golas.