Sven Nys had not even beed asked about his ambitions for the World Championships in Tabor. “I want to stand to the podium,” the Crelan AA Drink rider said firmly in an interview with Sport.be. “Even during the time when I felt bad – from mid-November and especially in December – I continued to work hard and I always believe in myself. I feel I’ve made huge progress since then.”

“However, it is not easy to come back to the highest level within the same season after a dip," Nys said. "But all signs are favorable at moment. I did not rest on the laurels. Work, work, work was the message. In the short team, the ambition is the Worlds but I also have the ambition and enthusiasm to be at my best next season.

"Due to circumstances this season has not been what I expected. But I'm proud of the way I dealt with it. I never doubted myself. I am and have always been super motivated and believe firmly that I can show beautiful things again next year."

But first there is the World Championships in Tabor. "I've won four times in Tabor, but the last time was a few years ago (2007). I have done two World Cups there (2001 & 2010). I have the experience. Especially since we might again expect snow and ice on the course next Sunday and that pleases me," said Nys.

"It's the first time this season that we will be faced with such wintry conditions. That gives me peace of mind. I can imagine that some others might be nervous. The young men must confirm themselves in those circumstances. Although I must say that Mathieu Van der Poel and Wout van Aert really stand out. I realize that it will be difficult to keep up with them.

"I will need a great day to achieve my ambition in Tabor but I believe in it. Last week I trained hard in Mallorca. On Saturday I was underway for almost 10 hours due to problems with ice and snow but one day later I was sixth in Hoogerheide with good feelings in the legs.”

Yesterday Nys trained behind a scooter and today he will travel to Tabor. "Thursday and Friday are completely dedicated to recovery," he explained. "On Saturday I will do a short intensive training session and then I hope for super legs on Sunday.”