In his first race for Cofidis, Kenneth Vanbilsen got close to his first win in his new colours when he finished second in the Grand Prix Marseillaise which was the scene of his breakthrough victory 12 months ago.

"I was hoping to do the double after my win last year, but it was not possible," he told Directvelo. "I'm disappointed because there was way to win, I'm sure. It was very close with Pim (Ligthart). It's a shame. I may have started a bit too late. Finally, I missed a few meters to win. Anyway, for this first race of the year with Cofidis, I want to say that the team was really perfect today. The guys have really done everything for me all day. Now I hope I can win a stage of the Etoile de Bessèges next week."