Yves Lampaert eyes Dwars door Vlaanderen Hat Trick

Strong field of rivals featuring Van Avermaet, Benoot, Naesen, Kristoff, Démare and even the reigning World Champion Valverde

The last two editions of Dwars door Vlaanderen have witnessed Belgian Yves Lampaert produce dominant performances to win on both occasions, with 2019 seeing his eyes firmly set upon making it a historic hat-trick of consecutive wins, becoming the first rider in history to do so if victorious. He shall need to overcome a strong field of rivals however, featuring Van Avermaet, Benoot, Naesen, Kristoff, Démare and even the reigning World Champion Valverde.

In his quest for three consecutive wins, Lampaert’s Deceuninck - Quick-Step team will be offering the support of classics specialist Philippe Gilbert. Former teammate Niki Terpsta lines up against him as the Dutchman starts thanks to Direct Energie’s wildcard spot. Not only would victory here for Lampaert make history, but also make a big statement, as this is the final test before the momentous Tour of Flanders.

Alejandro Valverde shall ensure that the rainbow bands of the world champion are done justice at Dwars door Vlaanderen, as the Spaniard eyes victory with strong support from new team mate Jürgen Roelandts (Movistar). Another world champion who is expected to catch the eye shall be Mathieu van der Poel, taking to the startline as a result of a wildcard for his team Corendon - Circus.

Van der Poel will be competing against Belgian fast racers such as reigning Olympic champion Greg Van Avermaet (CCC Team), Tiesj Benoot (Lotto Soudal) and Oliver Naesen (AG2R La Mondiale), who have never stood on the podium in Waregem. However, Sep Vanmarcke (EF Education First) and Edward Theuns (Trek-Segafredo), the latter of whom will be joined by Jasper Stuyven and Mads Pedersen, do have experience on the podium; the same goes for Jens Debusschere (Team Katusha-Alpecin), who won the race in 2016.

Second after Debusschere in 2016 was Bryan Coquard (Vital Concept - B&B Hotels). This year, with his quick legs, he could mount a challenge against his fellow countryman Arnaud Démare (Groupama - FDJ) and the Kristoff-Gaviria duo from UAE Team Emirates. The young Jasper Philipsen completes a strong line up of options for UAE.

Tune in this Wednesday April 3, 2019 to find out who takes the plaudits at the Verbindingsweg in Waregem.