Outgoing Belgian champion Klaas Vantornout does not regard as one of the favourites for tomorrow’s Belgian Championships after a disappointing season. "This feels like saying goodbye to my jersery. I do not even think about the win."

Last year Klaas Vantornout surprised friend and foe by winning the national championships in Erpe-Mere. He was allowed to wear the drikleur for an entire year but he has not had much pleasure. "I must admit that I have not had many highlights this year. It has not been easy,” he tells Sporza.

"The first half of the season was really bad. I was physically and mentally in a deep hole, but I have come out of it in a good way. In the last six weeks I have felt good on the bike again. I have fun with my sport again and that is already a victory in itself.

"I became champion last year in Erpe-Mere because I deserved it. If you  arrive alone on such a difficult course, you are the best. Okay, this season has been bad, but I'm still always 200 percent focused on my job. What can I do more? Unfortunately, my worst has been a season in the Belgian jersey.

"The first time I could wear the jersey, after the championships in Mol, I got some nice victories. That was a fantastic year. The first jersey remains the best. That feeling when you wear the jersey and everone recognizes you: Incredible .

"The secret to become champion? There are no secrets in this sport. You should obviously be very good but also able to deal with the stress. I handle that well. I am not faster in the Belgian Championships and the World Championships but pressure motivates me while others riders are bæocked.

Vantornout is not targeting a third jersey. "Everyone knows the names for tomorrow. The favorites for me are Wout van Aert, Kevin Pauwels and Tom Meeusen. Van Aert is a sure bet. He has won a lot, but not everything. But we cannot hide that he is the absolute top favorite.

"I would not like to be in Pauwels and Meeusen’s position. They have never won a jersey and will therefore feel a lot of pressure and stress. Personally, I do not even think about a victory. This really feels like saying goodbye to my jersey .

"I know you should not think like that but I'm realistic. I'm 34 years old and also appreciate that I am not the greatest talent. Due to work very hard and taking care of myself 200 percent, I have made it very far, despite my limited abilities.

"I've actually been incredibly happy that I have already worn that jersey twice and I do not think a third sweater would change my career much. I will give away the jersey with less regret than after my first year in the champion's jersey.

"What will make me satisfied? In a championship race, only the first place counts, but if I can be on the podium, it would still be nice. Whatever happens tomorrow, I've had a very rewarding career. That can no longer change.”