Despite the questions about whether the change of the Milan-San Remo route, mainly coming down to la Pompeiana climb being inserted 20.7km from the finish line, will turn into reality or not, Tom Boonen of Omega Pharma-Quick Steps claims he will participate in the event.

“I will start anyway. If the Pompeiana is in, then Milan-San Remo is 99% not for me. Otherwise, I am one of the leaders,” he told Het Nieuwsblad.

Emphasizing that it would have a huge impact on the race whether the new climb would be eventually inserted or not, the leader of Omega Pharma-Quick Step is still eager to participate in the Spring Classic, held this year on March 23rd, even if he would be forced to treat in only as a build-up for another following events.

If the threat of returning to its previous route, caused by the road surface of Pompeiana climb being too dangerous this part of the year because of weather conditions, comes to reality, Boonen claims to be ready to lead his Belgian squad in the race, as he considers it his last chance to win the first of the great classics of the season.

“Maybe I'll get another chance, the last. Because if the Pompeiana is not in it now, they'll be there next year."

“The organiser must take a final decision as soon as possible. To me it does not change my program, but some riders have their programs adapted to it. Milan-San Remo is not a small course and, a week in advance, it picks who are in shape.”

In such scenario no one would dare to turn down chances of the 33-year old Belgian, considering his impressive performances so far this season. The rider himself pointed out that the confusion about the route, in fact, increases his chances, as sprinters wouldn’t be properly prepared for the event expected to be unfavorable for their abilities.