Dendermonde often guarantees a mud spectacle, but unlike previous years, when Van Aert won all three of his participations, the surface was hard-packed this time. From the start, the pace was high and it was difficult to make up positions. As the race progressed, Van Aert worked his way into a favorable position. 

Just over halfway through the race, Van Aert took the lead in the front group, but no large gaps were created. In the final laps, the three-time world champion dropped back a few places, which meant he could not sprint for the win. Van Aert ultimately had to settle for sixth place. The victory went to Thibau Nys. 

“It was a difficult race with many possible scenarios,” Van Aert said afterwards. “Heading into the finale I was in a good position, but in the last two laps I let myself get passed a bit too easily. I didn’t have my best feeling today, but I’ll take this effort with me going forward. Tomorrow there’s already another opportunity waiting in Loenhout.”