The Amstel Gold Race, the most prestigious one-day race in the Netherlands, featured on this weekend’s calendar. The riders faced a demanding 260-kilometre course with over 3,000 altimeters. Team Visma | Lease a Bike has enjoyed success in recent years in the Dutch classic: Van Aert won the race in 2021, and Benoot claimed two third-place finishes in the last three editions.  

After a relatively calm opening phase, tension mounted in the peloton approaching the first of three ascents of the Cauberg. The early breakaway was reeled in with 70 kilometres remaining. Team Visma | Lease a Bike remained well-positioned throughout the race, waiting for the anticipated attacks from the favourites.  

With around 40 kilometres to go, world champion Tadej Pogacar launched the first major move on the Gulperberg. He went solo, but was gradually caught by chasers Skjelmose and Remco Evenepoel. The trio came together in the final kilometres, with Skjelmose surprisingly winning the sprint. In the group behind, Van Aert won the sprint for fourth, with Benoot also finishing in the top ten.  

For Van Aert, it marked a fifth consecutive top-five finish. “We rode a strong race, but maybe missed an opportunity today,” he said. “Not reacting to Evenepoel’s attack was a misjudgment. At that moment, I didn’t quite believe we could still close the gap to Pogacar. Still, I’m happy with how I felt. Like in recent races, I was up front, but the icing on the cake remained out.”  

Benoot finished just behind his teammate. “When Pogačar attacked on the Gulperberg, no one could follow,” said the 31-year-old Belgian. “Not responding to Evenepoel’s counterattack was a mistake, though we were right on our limit at that point. That was probably our only tactical error in what was otherwise a solid team performance. Wout and I were among the strongest again, and I’m pleased with that.”  

Sports director Arthur van Dongen also reflected positively on the team’s performance. “As always, the Amstel Gold Race was a challenging day,” he said. “Wout and Tiesj once again showed their excellent form in the finale. Ben Tulett also rode very well, though he had an unfortunate puncture at a crucial moment. Perhaps more was possible today had we responded to Evenepoel’s move, but overall, we’re satisfied with having two riders in the top ten.”