Sven Nys had to be content with third place in Niel. Hence, the Cannibal from Baal remains without a victory for a year. "I made too many stupid mistakes. I cannot win a race in this way," said Nys.

"I was cursing myself. Such stupid mistakes. I always got stuck in the mud and I also crashed in the sandbox. I just made too many mistakes to win even though I really wanted it. I just wanted to go full gas and see who could follow. Maybe I would pay for it afterwards, but then so be it. I had a good day," said Nys.

Pauwels rode away with Meeusen when Nys came to a standstill in the sand. "I noticed that Kevin's advantage then remained stable, but I could not ride faster than him. I realized that the race was over. I am sorry, these things should not happen. It makes it difficult to win. My condition is good, just like I want it. But everything hangs by a thread. Sometimes I make mistake. In the past, I could still make up for it but not anymore. This also has to do with the fast circuits. But I will continue to work hard and then everything will hopefully fall into place," concluded Nys.