Dillier saw Van der Poel change over the years: "He definitely adds some oil to the fire"

Mathieu van der Poel is the man and showpiece of Alpecin-Deceuinck. Silvan Dillier, an essential contributor to that team's spring team, can only confirm that. According to the Swiss, who has been on a team with many top riders anyway, the Dutch world champion is the most excellent rider he has ever raced with.

The 34-year-old helper explained that in conversation with Wieler Revue, the Ronde van Vlaanderen—the race Van der Poel has already managed to win three times—was also discussed. That is a tough race, but also one I can enjoy. It just plays into it that I get to ride for guys you know can win. It gives a different motivation than when you ride for a leader who, in the best scenario, can just finish in the top ten.

Dillier enjoyed Paris-Roubaix victory Van der Poel

"Van der Poel is undoubtedly the greatest rider I have been on the team," the 2018 Paris-Roubaix runner-up continued, equally praising MVDP. "He is an inspiration to everyone on our team. The attack he used to decide Paris-Roubaix ... That is just beautiful to see, also for us."

Dillier has seen the now highly experienced Van der Poel change over the years. "When I joined the team, we were racing against each other almost every day,' he indicated in the context of training camps. 'We have become a little calmer and train a little more structured, but we can't hold back from time to time, and the training explodes as can happen in competition."

"It also helps that Mathieu has changed somewhat," Dillier concluded. "He adds some oil to the fire when it turns into racing. If he feels like playing, it doesn't matter what's on the schedule that day. If he wants to race on a quiet day, it's race. I'd say I've been able to put him on the limit at times, but of course, I won't destroy myself on one workout when there's a whole training camp waiting. We always get to a point where we think: now it's enough."