Our Classics campaign continues at Flanders’ oldest race.
One of the most prestigious races that a sprinter can win, Scheldeprijs runs this week its 110th episode, held over a 198.7km pan-flat course from Terneuzen and Schoten, where the peloton will cover three laps before fighting for victory.
Fabio Jakobsen, who three years ago successfully defended his victory, becoming the youngest rider to score multiple wins at the Belgian one-day race, will be back at the start for the first time since that triumph. Iljo Keisse, who is in his final season as a pro, experienced lead-out man Michael Mørkøv, Stijn Steels, Jannik Steimle, Zdenek Stybar and Volta a Catalunya stage winner Ethan Vernon will also pin on a number for the Wolfpack this Wednesday.
“Normally this race is a festival of the sprinters, but this year it could be different, due to the wind in the first part of the race. Once we will enter on the local circuit, we will need to see how the situation is and make a decision on what we want to do. Fabio is very motivated, he likes echelons and wants to fight for the victory. Michael will be there to guide him in the finale, while Ethan, Stijn, Jannik, Iljo and Zdenek will bring plenty of experience and support. We are confident and ready to go for a good result”, said Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl sports director Wilfried Peeters.
Photo credit: ©Bas Czerwinski / Getty Images
