Fresh after taking two victories and consolidating his overall lead in round three of the Revolution Series, where he raced together with Wim Stroetinga, Iljo Keisse returns to the mainland for his favorite event, the Six Days of Ghent, which this year celebrates its 75th edition. Back for some time into the rhythm of track racing, the Etixx – Quick-Step rider will pair up with Michael Mørkøv – himself a winner of the competition – as they will try to land the win in what should be a fierce battle against other experienced teams.

“It will be for the first time we’ll ride together, but I don’t think it’s going to be any problem at all, as we know each other since a long time ago. I’m sure we are the most experienced team out there, and my partner and I are ranked as the top favorites, so I would like to live up to the expectations”, said Iljo Keisse, who raced the Six Days of Ghent 12 times, winning it on five occasions – 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012 – and thus engraving his name in the event’s roll of honour.

While many cyclists are yet to begin their winter preparation ahead of 2016, the 32-year-old Belgian is still going strong, after riding 91 days on the road in the past season, during which he also notched a win on the final day of the Giro d’Italia. With the first training camp of Etixx – Quick-Step looming, it spells a busy year for Keisse, but this doesn’t seem to bother him.

“I’m not complaining, I like to be on the track this time of the year. My condition is good, I feel excellent and I’m looking forward to the Six Days of Ghent. It’s a special race, and what makes it even more special – besides the fact it takes place in my hometown – is that nothing has changed over the years: it remains a mix of sport and pleasure”, a motivated Iljo Keisse concluded before his most important appointment of the track season.