Following the prologue, the flat opening stage and the individual time trial, the riders faced a hilly stage on Friday. The 110.5-kilometer stage from Sittard to Watersley offered plenty of opportunities to break the race open, with its short climbs and technical roads. “It was a nice race, and we came here with a very strong team. Of course, we wanted to win today’s stage, but on a course like this and in such a short stage, it’s always very hectic,” the Belgian said afterwards.

The pace was high from the start, with several riders trying to attack. An early breakaway was given little room by the peloton, but with around fifty kilometers to go, Team Visma | Lease a Bike helped turn the race on its head. Campenaerts joined an attack that significantly disrupted the race. “It was a hectic race, and at one point everyone was losing control a little, including us. I tried to drop everyone to get clear on my own, but I couldn’t shake them all off,” Campenaerts explained.

Campenaerts showed strong legs and moved to the front alongside Mick van Dijke and several other attackers. Eventually, the Belgian and the Dutchman were left alone at the front. The duo worked well together and built a gap over the chasing riders, setting up a battle for the stage victory between them. “Mick was with me, and we collaborated well until the finish line. Otherwise, neither of us would have won, so we kept working well together. I think we can both be happy with today’s stage,” Campenaerts concluded.

In the sprint for victory, Campenaerts had to settle for second behind Van Dijke, who crossed the finish line first. However, he not only secured an impressive second place but also took over the lead in the general classification. The latter makes the result particularly special for Campenaerts, as he pulls on a leader’s jersey for the first time in his career. “I’ve been a professional for a long time, but riding in a leader’s jersey is something I haven’t done yet,” the Belgian said.