Tom Boonen, nine years after his winning in Madrid, was one of the first riders to congratulate his teammate, Michal Kwiatkowski (Omega Pharma-Quick Step), after his world champion’s title in Ponferrada. The Polish was the fastest on the difficult Spanish course. He crossed the finish line first with a second ahead of Simon Gerrans (Orica GreenEDGE Cycling Team) and Alejandro Valverde (Movistar Team). 

A beautiful world champion according to the Belgian rider : "He is a beautiful champion. After the Tour of France, he thought his best form was behind him, but he was wrong, because he is the new world champion." If everyone wondered why the Polish selection was so quickly put on the front, Tom Boonen knew the answer : "Wednesday, Kwiatkowski told me that his team take the lead in case of rain. He is the leader and he could ask his teammates to do the work. They perfectly well because behind this was not easy."

The Belgian rider quickly realized that the Spanish profil would be a little too hard for him. "I knew I was going to be limited. I was not too bad sunday morning, although the feelings were not exceptional. The course was a bit too long for me. A one lap to go, I went to see Greg (Van Avermaet), saying it was for him", the Antwerp told 7sur7.

Belgium must therefore be content with a fifth and a seventh. "We are not going to complain. We did a very good race, we were one of the strongest nations sunday. But in the end, it’s the best that wins for me. We counted two former world champions in our ranks, look for people who have that opportunity. We must not be disappointed after our performance."