Bas Tietema (Unibet Rose Rockets) delighted with wildcard news

Tietema responded to the wildcards the team has secured for Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, Strade Bianche, Milano-Sanremo, In Flanders Fields. From Middelkerke to Wevelgem, Dwars door Vlaanderen, Tour of Flanders, Amstel Gold Race and La Flèche Wallonne.

“The Amstel Gold Race remains a very special race for us,” Tietema said. “It’s the race where we made our WorldTour debut. From that moment, we’ve built a strong growth curve.”

“The race also has a special place in our hearts because of all the fans we’ve seen over the past few years in our own ‘corner’. Thinking back to that time makes me excited for this year. We can’t wait to see everyone there again.”

“With the addition of In Flanders Fields. From Middelkerke to Wevelgem, our Flemish spring gets even more colour,” he continued. “It’s a race that perfectly fits our team and our style of racing: intense, unpredictable and full of opportunities to take the initiative. Being on the start line is another great chance for us within the spring classics campaign.”

The team will also get its moment in Italy. “Besides the Amstel Gold Race and In Flanders Fields, we received more fantastic news earlier this week: wildcards for Strade Bianche and Milano-Sanremo. These are races you grow up with as a cycling fan,” said Tietema.

“Turning up at the start of yet another Monument is hugely important for a young team like ours. We’re really looking forward to making our debut in these iconic Italian classics,” concluded Tietema, whose team is still in the running for a Giro d’Italia wildcard as well.