Ian Stannard: Etixx-QuickStep's Het Nieuwsblad tactics played into my hands

Ian Stannard talks about his against-the-odds Omloop Het Nieuwsblad victory

Photo: Graham Watson

(Image credit: Watson)

Ian Stannard (Team Sky) sprang a surprise at Het Nieuwsblad, escaping with three Etixx-QuickStep riders then beating them all at the finish in Ghent to successfully defend his title.

It was a victory against the odds, but the British rider said afterwards that the circumstances suited him. With a strong chasing group at 20 to 30 seconds for much of the final 30km, it meant the three Etixx riders – Tom Boonen, Niki Terpstra and Stijn Vandenbergh – had to keep riding hard rather than attacking Stannard.

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1