Nothing seemed to stand in the way of a traditional race. A group of four riders formed the front group but remained within striking distance of the peloton throughout the day. The riders overcame two short climbs along the way before embarking on the hectic final. The wind played a role in the final 30 kilometres and the nervousness increased.

Michel Hessmann, Johannes Staune-Mittet and later Pascal Eenkhoorn were not lucky. Hessmann crashed but continued his journey with a few abrasions. Crashed riders unintentionally held up Staune-Mittet and Eenkhoorn. At the front, Gesink and Foss got through unharmed. Gesink kept Foss cleverly in front in a group that increased the speed considerably.

“There was every indication that it would be a quiet opening stage”, said sports director Maarten Wynants. “At the end, the wind picked up and blew a storm of nervousness into the peloton, resulting in a massive crash. Then all hell broke loose. Several teams wanted to ensure themselves of a place in the front. Michel crashed, but despite some severe abrasions, he could finish the race. The turmoil seemed to be over, but fifteen kilometres from the finish, the race became chaotic again. Pascal and Johannes paid the price."

Wynants revealed that the drawn-up battle plan was slightly altered. “We anticipated the situation and aimed for the highest possible classification for Tobias. Robert did an excellent job. In the end, his efforts helped Tobias to become tenth. He felt good today. With the necessary climbing and Saturday’s time trial in mind, Tobias can do well here. As a team, we are going to do everything we can”, the Belgian concluded.