Development Keije Solen looks ahead to Omloop Nieuwsblad U23: “As a team, we want to fight for victory again”

Once again, the team lines up at the start with ambition. “We have a very strong and well-balanced squad,” Solen explains. “We can win in different ways and we have riders suited to every possible race scenario. But that also brings pressure, because as favourites, all eyes will be on us.” On a personal level, Solen hopes to stay attentive and be present at the key moments of the race. “My goal is to be at the front whenever the decisive moves happen. And if it comes down to a sprint, I hope I can finish it off”

In recent years, the Omloop Nieuwsblad U23 has often developed into a gruelling contest in which positioning and strong teamwork made the difference. Traditionally, the race is animated in the hilly section. The double passage over the Haaghoek and the Leberg consistently creates a tough race, while the iconic Muur-Kapelmuur marks the start of the final. Despite this, the race has frequently ended in a sprint. Lotto-Groupe Wanty has proven particularly successful in that scenario, with the team winning each of the last six editions.

With another strong line-up, Lotto-Groupe Wanty appears ready once again to leave its mark on the race. Alongside Keije Solen; Mathias De Keersmaeker, Samuel Greenwell, Tars Poelvoorde, Tuur Verbeeck and Victor Vaneeckhoutte will also take the start in Herzele.

Photo: Milan Berckmoes