The Volta Limburg Classic will always be a special race for Limburg-born Frans Maassen. In 2014, Team LottoNL-Jumbo’s sports director was over the moon with Moreno Hofland’s victory.

“I would have liked to have Moreno Hofland at the start again, but he isn’t fit enough,” said Maassen.

“We have Barry Markus, who’s quick, but he is obviously a different type of sprinter. It would be great if he survives the final, but that’s a difficult and exciting challenge.”

Parcours
The Volta Limburg Classic organisation has slightly modified this year’s course. The final climb is much closer to the finish line than in previous years.

“In the past, the several groups came together in the final. Thanks to the adjustments, a break now stands a bigger chance, which doesn’t has to be a disadvantage for us.”

Martijn Keizer agrees. The Dutchman finished 11th in the Volta Limburg Classic in 2013 and fought for victory until very late in the race in 2014.

“But on the local laps, the sprinters came back. The new course is an advantage for me, though,” said Keizer, who is very content about his form.

“I’m one-hundred per cent fit at the moment. I rode Tirreno-Adriatico and the Tour of Catalonia, two tough WorldTour races, so my racing level should be all right.

“I expect an elimination race on Saturday if the weather remains stormy like the last few days."

Team line-up:
Brian Bulgac, Martijn Keizer, Wilco Kelderman Steven Kruijswijk, Bert-Jan Lindeman & Barry Markus.

Sports Directors:
Louis Delahaije & Frans Maassen