Stijn Vandenbergh (32) has already taken several top results in the Flemish spring races. At AG2R, the elusive classic victory must finally come. "Paris-Roubaix is made for me," the new Ag2r signing told Sporza.
After five years at Etixx-QuickStep, Stijn Vandenbergh needed som fresh air.He opted for a second adventure with AG2R.
"It started to be feel frustrating that I primarily had to play a domestique role at Quick Step. I'm 32 now so it is now that I must try to get my chance."
In the French team, Vandenbergh and Oliver Naesen will be the clear leaders on the cobbles.
"I'm glad I'm in a team with Oliver. We will have to be waiting a bit more than was the case with QuickStep. Oliver and I have to do the finales.
"In theory, Paris-Roubaix suits me the best. But I've always had some bad luck. One year I crashed and last year I could not start due to illness."
Suppose that Vandenbergh and Boonen are the final two riders in front at Paris-Roubaix, that they have a lead of 2 minutes and that Boonen gets a puncture 2km from the finish. Would Vandenbergh wait for Boonen in his last race?
"No, I would not wait. I would love to ride with Tom at the Vélodrome and 9 out of 10 times he beats me. But wait for him? I do not think anyone would do that even if you get the whole of Flanders against you because it’s Boonens's farewell race. "
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