ProTeam Arnaud De Lie: “My victory in Québec last year gave me a big confidence boost”
“My victory here in Québec last year gave me a confidence boost for some races. You could see that in the Bretagne Classic, where I was also making the race on the climbs. It also gave me a mental boost. In the final here last year I was positioned very far actually, but then to still win makes you think about your potential. It was emotional and the team did great work the whole day.”
“I think this year we will have a different race with Tadej PogaÄar, we will have to be up there in the front earlier as I think the race will open up earlier. I am here, but also Maxim (Van Gils) is a specialist in one-day races. He is fast on the finish and can follow the best, having him here by my side is a big advantage as I can’t answer all attacks myself and need to keep something in my legs for the sprint. Sunday in Montréal is a race that suits Maxim better than me, if I can help him there I will definitely do so.”
“I’m super happy to be here again. I rested well since I have arrived here and don’t feel jetlagged. We want to go for the victory again. At the Bemer Cyclassics I didn’t have a great day, but I hope to find my good feeling again here in Canada. It’s a long race of 200 kilometers, you need to come fresh to the final. Especially at the finish you hear the crowds going crazy, it’s a fantastic atmosphere and the people along the road give you an extra boost.”
Picture: PhotoNews
