Cycling: April, April, he doesn't know what he wants. But Alejandro Valverde (Movistar) knows: The Spaniard wants to win his fifth victory at Flèche Wallonne. We spectators want to see another thrilling race. Especially in the month of April we usually get the best cycling. The Ardennes classics are partly responsible for this. We have the first of these on Sunday with the Amstel Gold Race already behind us. Will the Flèche Wallonne be just as exciting on Wednesday? We take a look at the starting field and the route and make a not-so-bold prediction.
Over 200 kilometers of inrun for the Mur de Huy
Every cycling fan knows the Mur de Huy. As well-known as she is, she is feared by the pros. After a race of more than 200 kilometers from Binche to Huy, there is one more waiting at the end 1.300 meter long wall. The Mur de Huy has an average gradient of 9,6 percent and has to be climbed overall drove three times be: 58 & 29 kilometers before the finish and then again at the end. If you still have fresh legs and don't weigh too much at the same time, you can compete for the prestigious victory. It's not enough to be a good climber, because the Mur de Huy almost has its own laws. Many professionals overestimated themselves on the way up. Closing up a lead of around 20 seconds doesn't seem to be a problem for the top drivers. Hardly anyone can remember successful breakaways or surprise winners.
Our tip: Alejandro Valverde is unbeatable
On the way up, the pros drive past seven chapels. However, the drivers have no eyes for it. Hardly any other mountain in cycling demands so much from the pilot after such a long distance. The 1,3 kilometer long wall has on average "only" 9,3 percent, but some passages point round 17 percent out of. The worst piece brings with a slope of 26 percent every driver to his limits. With his fourth win last year has Alejandro Valverde made the record holder of the Flèche Wallonne. Since he is currently in an impressive form, he is again the clear favorite. His biggest challengers from Team Quick-Step Floors are out: Philip Gilbert is missing because of a kidney rupture Julian Alaphilippe has knee problems. It is impressive that the third major opponent also rides for the Quick-Step Floors team: Daniel Martin has finished in the top six four times at the Flèche Wallonne.
Will Michael Albasini finally achieve the big win?
German and Austrian drivers will probably not play a role tomorrow. But there is hope for the Swiss: Michael Albasini (Orica-Scott) did very well in the Amstel Gold Race. He is also the Flèche Wallonne. After all, he's finished in the top 11 eight times here, including with the Sky duo Sergio Luis Henao and Michal Kwiatkowski is to be expected. However, it may be difficult to find other winners. Alexis Vuillermoz (Ag2r), Tim Wellens (Lotto Soudal), Rigoberto Urán (Cannondale-Drapac) and Daniel Moreno (Movistar) are at best outsider chances. We can look forward to the second appearance of Michael Woods (Cannondale-Drapac). The Canadian finished twelfth here last year and recently presented himself in quite competitive shape on a steep climb. Unfortunately we will search in vain for the twins Simon and Adam Yates by the Orica-Scott team. After disappointing results so far in the Flèche Wallonne, the Brits will not be competing this year.