Nys impresses in Amstel Gold test: "I really wanted to go with Pogačar"

For Nys, it was his first experience with a major spring classic. You could say he passed the test successfully. "We did a perfect job as a team, and I am satisfied with how I feel. I said this beforehand: I wanted to play a role in the final. And I think I succeeded. The last time on the Cauberg was too much," the Belgian concluded.

"I was running out of steam a bit there. I could still ride fast, but I had lost my punch. I felt that on the last passage over the Cauberg," said Nys. "I'm satisfied because it was very good and I enjoyed myself. The Amstel Gold Race suits me, and I'll be back for the win. But first, the Flèche Wallonne, where I think I'll be even better."

Continue reading below the photo!

Nys even considered going with Tadej Pogacar when he launched his big attack. "I was a bit too far back when Pogacar went. At the time, I thought it was a missed opportunity because my legs still felt really good. But in retrospect, it was probably for the best because I would have been racing against myself. It was just good, except for the last few kilometers," he summarized his race in a few sentences.

Nys was not surprised that Skjelmose ultimately won in Berg en Terblijt. "The moment Mattias went on the Keutenberg, I could see he was incredibly strong. It was the perfect moment, and I felt that he was the only one who had the punch," said his teammate. "Mattias is an incredibly nice guy who is 100% committed to his profession. I think everyone in the peloton is happy for him. I heard it after the finish. Fantastic, unbelievable, magnificent," said Nys, choosing three striking words to describe the moment.

Nys will try to do it again on Wednesday in the Flèche Wallonne, although Remco Evenepoel has already warned that they won't let the Belgian from Lidl-Trek have a free ride to Huy. After that, he will also compete in Liège-Bastogne-Liège before ending his spring season on May 1 in Eschborn-Frankfurt.