Welshman Geraint Thomas (Team Sky) won in the first of the cobbled classics E3 Harelbeke which was marked by serious crash for Fabian Cancellara and a beautiful performance by Yoann Offredo (16th).

"Overall we had a good race," FDJ manager Marc Madiot said. "Like last year Arnaud Démare decided to skip the race in favor of Gent-Wevelgem on Sunday and his two usual lieutenants Yoann Offredo and Matthieu Ladagnous were present."

Behind a trio of Thomas, Sagan and Stybar, a group of twenty riders, including Offredo, fought for the places of honor.

"Knowing that he did not have the burst of speed to beat everyone, Yoann anticipated in the finale but he was caught. It was his last shot and he can not have regrets. Matthieu Ladagnous had no success because it was our of position at the boom of Paterberg, where the race was decided. When he got going, he found himself in a second group with Mickael Delage. That said, we know he has good legs."

This is true for all team members even if William Bonnet and Marc Sarreau were involved in Cancellara's crash. They returned to the pack.