“It’s historic for cycling”, Vos says with a smile when speaking about Milano-Sanremo. “It’s a classic for a reason, it's even a monument. Last year was the first time we raced it. You know what to expect, but at the same time it’s still a bit of an unknown. One thing is certain: the Cipressa and Poggio will make the race explode.”

In the inaugural edition, the 38-year-old rider narrowly missed out on victory. Behind Lorena Wiebes, Vos sprinted to second place after strong teamwork, including support from Pauline Ferrand-Prévot. The Dutch rider has fond memories of last year’s race. “In recent years, we’ve had several first editions of major races. When Milano-Sanremo was added to the calendar, you could feel something special in the peloton.”

“There’s a certain excitement, doing something for the first time. You study the course just a bit more closely than when you’ve only seen it on television”, Vos explains. Boven also remembers last year’s edition well. “The racing was quite cautious, maybe because it was the first time the event was held. This year, the race could unfold differently.”

Vos agrees with her sports director. “In a way, it’s a simple race, but also very complex. That’s what makes Milano-Sanremo so special. We’ll try to make the most of our strengths. We’re lining up with a strong team. The feeling at the Trofeo Alfredo Binda was good, but of course we want more as a team.”

In that Italian one-day race, which Vos has won four times, she finished sixth last Sunday. This Saturday, the goal is victory. Boven: “It’s no surprise that our focus will be on Marianne if it comes down to a sprint in Sanremo. If the race unfolds differently, we of course have multiple options. In any case, we’re ready to make it a great race.”

“If we get the most out of ourselves as a team, I’ll be satisfied. I’m really looking forward to it”, Vos concludes. Alongside their leader, Team Visma | Lease a Bike Women will line up with Sarah Van Dam, Daniek Hengeveld, Lieke Nooijen, Margaux Vigié, and Femke de Vries.