Milan-Sanremo is the first monument of the season. The Italian classic follows the traditional route with the Passo del Turchino, the three Capos, the Cipressa, the Poggio and the finish on the Via Roma in Sanremo.

Van Aert has had plenty of time to prepare for 'La Primavera'. "After Paris-Nice, I was pretty tired, but I have been able to prepare optimally. I raced hard on Sunday, but I felt fit again on Wednesday. I was able to rest well, relax with my family and have fun days. The whole preparation went as I wanted, giving me a lot of confidence."

The Belgian champion also has confidence in his team. "It's the first time I'm at the start of this race with such a strong team. Because I have outstanding teammates, I will be able to save energy for a long time. That's important in every race, but it's even more important in Milan-Sanremo. Primoz will also be there. For me, he is one of the best riders in the world. It means a lot when you have someone like him with you."

Van Aert also draws confidence from the fact that he has already won this race once. "My goal is to win again. It's important for me that I've had finals here in different situations. I feel at least as good as in 2020 when I won here and a little better than in 2021 when I finished third. My worst result in Milan-Sanremo was sixth, which was on my debut. So I can say this course suits me. I will definitely go for the win."