Team LottoNL-Jumbo plans to make a flying start to the Circuit Franco Belge-Eurométropole. Sports Director Erik Dekker will take a number of ambitious time trial specialists to the stage race that starts with a 7.7-kilometre prologue.

“The prologue is our first objective,” Dekker said. “The boys are very motivated. A number of them have specifically asked to start here because they believe they can do well in the prologue. I definitely think we have riders who can perform."

Dekker knows the importance of a good start.

“We often see bunch prints in Franco Belge, but much depends on the weather. We want to start well in the prologue, which is the first step to a good overall. The rest will follow after that.”

Martijn Keizer is one of the riders who wanted to ride Franco Belge. After his crash in the Vuelta a España time trial, the Dutchman is seriously motivated.

“I want to take advantage of my Vuelta shape one final time and go all-in. I tried to keep my rhythm by racing. In Franco Belge, I want to compete for the victory. By all means, I want to finish in the top five.”

In the run-up to Franco Belge, Dekker will bring an almost similar squad to the start of the Omloop van het Houtland Lichtervelde on Wednesday, September 23.

Team line-up Omloop van het Houtland Lichtervelde:
Tom Van Asbroeck , Rick Flens, Moreno Hofland, Martijn Keizer, Barry Markus, Maarten Wynants,  Twan Castelijns & Koen Bouwman.

Team line-up Circuit Franco Belge-Eurométropole:
Tom van Asbroeck, Rick Flens, Moreno Hofland, Martijn Keizer, Mike Teunissen, Maarten Wynants, Twan Castelijns & Steven Lammertink.