Ninth in 2012, Rinaldo Nocentini was not far from repeating that performance. He was present in the group that sprinted for the win and finished in twelfth position.

"My balance is positive," he said. "I did not miss much. I did not do a perfect sprint. I was on Gallopin's wheel but Kreuziger swerved and I lost contact.

"I love this race, you're forced to stay focused throughout the day. I can see the shape is there, Fleche (Wallonne ) and Liège-Bastogne-Liège are next and they suit me better. I'm confident."