The Opening Weekend was the first major test for the newly formed Classics squad of Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe. Four of the seven riders who lined up at the start had only joined the team a few weeks ago – and together, this lineup raced side by side for the very first time. While the big result was still missing, the team gained valuable insights and plenty of confidence heading into the upcoming Classics.
“We showed a much stronger performance than in previous years. It was clear that the team has the right level. Throughout the races, we were often in good positions, played an active role, and were present in the key attacks during the final,” summarizes CEO Ralph Denk, who was on-site supporting the team.
On Saturday, Tim van Dijke finished 15th at Omloop Nieuwsblad in his debut race for the team. On Sunday, Jordi Meeus sprinted to 12th place at Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne.
“In terms of performance, it was very promising, and that gives us confidence,” says Ralph Denk. “But in the end, results are what count – and we didn’t quite get them this weekend. Now it’s about executing our potential in the final. I’m convinced that in the upcoming one-day races in Belgium, we will see the rewards of our efforts.”
Before the Belgian cobbled races continue on March 26 with Classic Brugge-De Panne, the team will head to the Italian and French spring races – the perfect fine-tuning for the big Classics still to come.