Peter Sagan failed to defend his title at Gent-Wevelgem but with the race shaping up as a much easier affair than last year's edition, it didn't suit the characteristics of the strong Slovakian. Taking third in the bunch sprint finish made the Slovakian happy and he was especially pleased to get through the crash-marred race unscathed.

Peter Sagan was close to winning his second Classic in a row today in Gent-Wevelgem. The Cannondale Pro Cycling team leader came up in third place after the massive sprint that decided the race at the end of 233 km of all-out riding. John Degenkolb (Giant-Shimano) claimed the win and Arnaud Demare placed second.

Compared to 2013 edition, the development of the 2014 Gent-Wevelgem was suited for a sprint arrival. The Cannondale Pro Cycling team put on a bold performance to manage the race for  their leader and, after the finish line, Sagan can smile.

“This third place makes me satisfied. I did a good sprint, even if maybe I started too early, and I finish the race safe, without being involved in any crash” said Sagan. “My teammates did an amazing work during all the hot moments of the race, especially in the finale. Degenkolb has been strong to follow my wheel and to pass me.

"Sprints are always a guessing game, especially when there are a lot of good riders in the bunch and you have 230 kilometres in the legs. I’m happy for the podium and for the good feeling I had. I thought I had a chance to win but I’m not disappointed – it has been a good day”.

On Tuesday, April the 1st, Sagan will be at the start of the three days race Driedaagse De Panne with his eyes fixed on the Flanders’ queen race on Sunday the 6th

“Next week will be very important to prepare the Ronde Van Vlaanderen. The results I achieved in Harelbeke and today in Gent-Wevelgem prove that the condition is good. I’m confident to be able to perform well and my team too – if we were not, I guess who have to be” added Sagan .

Thanks to the 50 points gained today, Sagan jumped at the second place of the UCI World Tour ranking with 143 points (first Alberto Contador, 198 – third Nairo Quintana, 137).