Realistic Wout van Aert after top-10 finish in Strade Bianche

As honest as ever, Van Aert did not hide from the verdict. “I rode the race that was in my legs,” he said. “It was incredibly hard. I’m still missing something, but not very much, to be with that group behind Tadej Pogačar. I’m satisfied with that.”

Van Aert was well positioned on the decisive sectors, but on the steep Colle Pinzuto and Le Tolfe he ultimately had to give way to his own limits.

“Of course I wanted more, but the selection on Monte Sante Marie was very honest. I still need to take one more step to be there with that group.”

The Belgian said that “words fall short” to describe the ride of winner Tadej Pogačar. “You almost expect it, but he still proves it every single time. You can feel that everyone is racing for second place. He forces that, of course.”

Jorgenson eventually finished eighth in Strade Bianche, while young Tim Rex impressed on his debut by still doing a turn on the front for Van Aert and company after making the early break. With intended leaders Louis Barré out through a cold and Ben Tulett sidelined by knee pain, Visma | Lease a Bike can still look back on the day with a fair degree of satisfaction. Both riders are still set to head to altitude camp ahead of the Ardennes block.

Van Aert’s next stop is Tirreno–Adriatico, where he hopes to sharpen his form further. The seven-day stage race begins on Monday in Lido di Camaiore and should offer the Belgian several opportunities to chase a stage result. Mathieu van der Poel is also set to ride the race.