Niki Terpstra Sunday appears confident at the start of the Tour of Flanders. The Dutchman feels his form is growing and hopes Etixx-Quick Step can perform better than in recent weeks.

"It’s a new race, new opportunities for us. The important races are coming," Terpstra said to NOS, looking ahead after the disappointment of Gent-Wevelgem last week is still fresh in his memory. In the semi-classics he and his teammates could not play a leading role. Sunday, Terpstra will finally try to dominate again.

"Actually, in all big races this year I have had to chase. Sunday should be different," says Terpstra. That does not, according to him, mean that the team will employ a completely different tactic. "We will not change too much our plans."

When asked the question of who would do the chasing in the finale if the team required it, Terpstra said it would be decided on the day: “It comes down to who has the shape on the day.”

The confidence of Terpstra certainly has not suffered despite the lean season. "My form has been all season improving, so I hope this Sunday and next Sunday are the best days," said Terpstra.