Valter, who missed out on the national time trial title by ten seconds last Wednesday, did not have his best day on the bike due to stomach issues. After joining the first group, he went on the attack several times.

Without success. His compatriots did not want to let him go. In the end, a sprint had to decide who would take the national title. Valter started it late and beat Fetter after a thrilling battle, taking his first win of the season. For Team Visma | Lease a Bike it was the twentieth win of the season. "This is perhaps the best one so far," a proud Valter said. "Last year I won after a long solo and the first one was very overwhelming. For this title, I had to fight the hardest. A great feeling."

"It was a very exciting battle. Just before the final climb I tried to attack several times, but my opponents kept coming back. Then I decided to wait for the sprint. Although it was only by a few centimetres, it was just enough to beat Erik," said Valter, who is happy to ride in the red-white-green jersey for another year. "I have become very used to it by now, so I am happy to wear it for another year."

Photos: Németh András