The Flemish cycling season starts on February 28 and March 1 with the Omloop Het Nieuwblad and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne. Obviously it is an important time for Johan Vansummeren . 

The Belgian rider, winner of the 2011, will be the leader of Ag2r-La Mondiale in the first classic of the year.

"I was happy with my form at the  Dubai Tour but then I crashed twice on the first day of the Ruta Del Sol . However, since I got back to Belgium, I have recovered.

"In Belgium, one can feel the season is about to start, especially in the press. There is always a little excitement before the first cobbled races, although I do not know where I am.

"I'm really glad I joined the AG2R La Mondiale team. I think I quickly found my role. It's a real pleasure to work for the leaders as it was the case with Romain Bardet in Spain. I was really happy to cross the line and learn that he had fought with the best. It's a pleasure to work in such conditions."