Rob Peeters (30) was a surprise runner-up in the Superprestige race in Zonhoven. The Vastgoedservice was in tears as he stepped onto the podium. "Last year around this time, my father died," Peeters said.

It was a 1-2 for Vastgoedservice in the sand pit of Zonhoven. One minute behind Wout Van Aert, Rob Peeters sprinted to second place and hugged his younger teammate.

"In two days, it's one year since my father died," he told Sporza. "Zonhoven was the last race which he attended.

"At three laps from the finish, I was so scared that my plan would fail. All these fast men came to my wheel. I'm super happy I could resist.

"I also had a very good day. I think my father helped me.

"It's just very difficult. These are all events where he has been there for me. Now I need to go to races without him."

In the final lap, leader Wout van Aert had time to enjoy. Behind him, Rob Peeters Kevin Pauwels battled in the sprint.

"I felt his wheel touching my foot, but I have not closed the door. I can not help that Kevin chooses the smallest gap," Peeters said regarding Pauwels' frustration about the sprint.

"When I saw Sven Nys and Kevin Pauwels getting, two fast guys still in the sprint, I thought I was beaten in advance. In the last corner I just gave it everything and I rode a fair sprint. I kept my line. Kevin simply chose the smallest gap. I'm not one to destroy the race for another rider."

Although Pauwels was clearly frustrated, the leader of Sunweb-Napoleon Games have made no complaint afterwards. "Kevin has told nothing about it," added Peeters. "Because there was nothing to worry about. I am proud of this second place. This feels really good."