Sports director Lidl-Trek states that van Aert "talks a lot in the media and then usually performs well" and tips Vacek as a contender for the pink jersey

"The guys did more than we requested," according to the Belgian former rider. "Our tactics focused more on the final lap and Surrel, but we did not expect the team to be this strong. We had to control the race, but not like that. We already managed to thin out the field on the first passage and made a good impression, so no one at the back tried anything. That was better than our most ambitious plan."

"It was perfect," Monfort repeated. ”To be honest, I thought it was too early. On the other hand, I also knew that Giulio Ciccone, who is in top form, was ready to help the team." The Italian took care of the Surrel climb when they tackled it for the second time, leaving many of his opponents gasping for breath.

While Visma | Lease a Bike said the climb was tougher than they initially thought, the German-American team didn't agree. "We had a completely different view, namely that it was easier. That wasn't my opinion, but Mads'. He said: no way that I will be dropped here."

Monfort was not surprised that Visma | Lease a Bike helped out along the way. "Not really, because Wout talks a lot in the media and then usually performs well. He did a great job. He was in third position and came back strong from behind very professionally. In the end, it was only a difference of 30 centimeters, so I think it's normal that they helped out."

On Saturday, the program includes a 13.7-kilometer time trial through the streets of Tirana. What does Monfort think Pedersen can achieve there? "Mads is very strong in time trials. He's not a specialist, but when you see how far back many of the other riders finished, you realize he has a good chance. It's possible to keep the jersey but keep in mind that we also have Mathias Vacek. He is a specialist, and he is riding very well. He may also wear the pink jersey, but there are other contenders too."

Pedersen hasn't been able to train specifically for this, says Monfort, despite the realistic scenario that he would be wearing pink. "It was only four weeks after the classics, so there was no time to ride the time trial bike. But the adrenaline of the pink jersey and his excellent form could take him a long way."

"We don't know yet who will be in the car behind him. We haven't decided yet, but maybe Kim Andersen is the best choice. Because he can speak Danish,” explains the sports director. ”The native language can help a little, but it can also be an extra boost. But we haven't made that decision yet. Maybe it will help."