Having narrowly missed the podium in yesterday's Fleche Wallonne, Bauke Mollema is ready for the final Ardennes classics when he lines up as Belkin leader at the Liege-Bastogne-Liege. Supported by Paul Martens and Lars Petter Nordhaug, the Dutchman is full of confidence as he feels stronger than ever at this time of the year.

The Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM will count on strong teamwork once again in Liège-Bastogne-Liège this Sunday. As in La Flèche Wallonne, Bauke Mollema will spearhead the squad, and Paul Martens and Lars Petter Nordhaug will play key helper roles. 

“We have been working towards this period,” said Sports Director Merijn Zeeman. “The last few races have given us a lot of confidence. The guys are performing well. 

“Bauke will be our captain. With Paul, Lars Petter and the other guys, we have a very strong team. The final is a bit more difficult than in previous years so the race will get hard early. That’s an advantage when you’re good. And Bauke is in a top shape right now.” 

Mollema agreed with his Sports Director.

“My condition is superb. The last few races went great, and Liège suits me even better than the Amstel and Flèche Wallonne. 

“I needed some races to get into my rhythm this year, but currently, I’m stronger than I’ve ever been during this time of the year. I have high morale going into Liège.” 

Martens finished 13th in the Fleche Wallonne yesterday. He said that he is happy about himself and the team. 

“I’m making steps ahead and feeling that I’m getting better. Hopefully, I can stay at the front until late in the race on Sunday and support Bauke. I would be great to put one of us in the top as a team. 

“We have a group that keeps getting better together. Valverde and Rodriguez are slightly better normally, but together we are strong and can give them a hard time.” 

Nordhaug placed 26th in the Flèche Wallonne. The Norwegian expects he will be in a good shape for Liège-Bastogne-Liège. 

“I like riding in the Ardennes. The climbs suit me well. Liège is a long race and I like that. I’m getting older and my engine is getting bigger. We are doing well as a team. Bauke is our captain, but we have more cards to play.” 
 

Jack Bobridge, Martijn Keizer, Jonathan Hivert, Paul Martens, Bauke Mollema, Lars Petter Nordhaug, Bram Tankink and David Tanner.