Thijs Zonneveld predicts echelons in Tour of Flanders: “There will be moments when it splits”

On Thursday, Soudal Quick-Step had already spoken about the possibility of an even tougher edition of Flanders’ Finest. “A lot of wind is forecast, especially headwind. That could change a lot,” the team wrote on its website. Zonneveld has now also highlighted the wind as an additional pain point for the riders.

That applies in particular to the men hoping to make an early move and survive deep into the finale. “The first hundred kilometres are straight into a headwind from the start.” According to the Dutch analyst, that makes an anticipatory move far less attractive this year. “If, for example, Dylan van Baarle wants to go with a move to anticipate, this is not a fun year to do it. You’re just going to ride yourself into the ground.”

The first hundred kilometres may be difficult because of the wind, but they are not necessarily where it will have the biggest impact. “In the final circuits, there are really going to be moments when it splits,” said Zonneveld. “The wind is going to play a very big role.” According to the Dutchman, that impact will differ depending on the section of the course.

“On the flat, you have to watch out for echelons. On the Oude Kwaremont, it is slightly against them at an angle,” and that, in the analyst’s view, is not ideal for Tadej Pogačar. “For Pogačar, it is best if the wind is behind him there.” In the final phase of the race, though, conditions could actually suit the Slovenian better.

“On the final section after the Paterberg, they’ll have a force-five tailwind. If Pogačar rides away on the Oude Kwaremont, that is really unfavourable if you want to bring him back,” Zonneveld concluded. Still, with Remco Evenepoel now added to the start list, the chasers may have an exceptionally strong ally on the flat.