Jurgen Van den Broeck (Lotto Soudal) took his first Belgian time trial title with a surprise victory in the 2015 edition of the champioships.

"Ths title is very important for me," he said. "Especially after all those years of having to fight back It was said that I had nothing ore to give but today I have proved my critics wrong.

"This is quite a relief. This title will do something with me. I'm really emotional. Especially since this took place in my own region. I live about ten kilometers from here. That's why I have been doing this course in every training ride. So I got to know the course a bit better. After the Giro I had already put my mind on these championships. I knew the Tour of Switzerland came too soon after the Giro. In Switzerland, I juds wanted to ride.

"I started very fast like in the Giro. I went out at my own pace. I may have started too quickly. But as in the time trial at the Giro, the legs continued to feel good. 

"This year I have really improved in this discipline. I do not really know why. Last year, I was probably too skinny but I do not know if it has affected my power. I will continue to work on the time trial. The story about me and the TT has already lasted for many years (note: Van den Broeck was junior world champion in 2001).

"I'll celebrate this title, but I won't say how. I will now enjoy time trials more. From Saturday I can start every TT in this tricolore jersey. That means something for me. My further program? Now I will rest for a while, because I will not go to the Tour."