Van Aert admits that he has heard many favourable stories about the races from his fellow riders in the peloton. “They assured me that everything is meticulously organised here. I look forward to experiencing it firsthand. I have watched the races several times on television and I have always wanted to compete in these races. I am happy that it will now happen.”

“These races are part of my preparation for the world championship”, Van Aert says. “But I don’t come here just to establish a race rhythm. These are two beautiful races at the WorldTour level. I’m also here because I believe I have a chance of winning in both races. We are starting with a strong team. My shape is fine. After a short break in the past few weeks, it felt good to be back on the bike.”

Van Aert is aware of his opportunities because he has closely examined the course of both races. “There is a significant chance of a group sprint on Friday in Québec. Therefore explosiveness will likely be crucial. I am eager to achieve good results, not least because I have not won these races before”, the Belgian says.

“The race in Montreal on Sunday is the tougher of the two. There is a good chance that a strong leading group will compete for the win. In comparison to Friday’s race, it requires a different kind of racing. Riding local laps is special to me. It somewhat evokes the feeling of a championship. The spectators will also enjoy the race, in addition to the cyclists.”

Van Aert is eager to pin on a bib number on the North American continent on Friday. “I can tell more about my experiences after the race. I enjoy being here. It is nice to experience this culture and this landscape. It will not be easy to win one of these two races, but if I manage to do so, I will be a happy person”, Van Aert concluded.