The Wolfpack will make its second appearance of the week on home soil, at a race we won twice.

Izegem Koers is back after a one-year hiatus with its 46th edition, set to be held over a 9km local circuit that the peloton will cover 18 times, for a total of 162 kilometers. The previous edition was won by Yves Lampaert, who was followed by Alvaro Hodeg, and if the Belgian won’t be present to defend his title as he is riding the Tour of Britain this week, the Colombian will return at the start.

Victorious in two races this season, Alvaro will be joined for Thursday’s race by former New Zealand National Champion Shane Archbold, Iljo Keisse, UCI Esports World Champion Jason Osborne, Pieter Serry, Stijn Steels and Gullegem Koerse winner Stan Van Tricht.

“We go to Izegem Koers with a strong squad aiming to be again in the mix when it comes down to crunch time. Alvaro will be our man in case the race is decided in a sprint, and he’ll have a solid team around him, comprising Shane, Iljo, Pieter and Stijn. Regarding our two stagiaires, it will be another good occasion for them to gain more experience”, said Deceuninck – Quick-Step sports director Rik Van Slycke.

 

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