On the hilly course between Verviers and Herve, the riders were presented with three categorised climbs. On the famous Cote de la Redoute, the climb that marks the final of Liège-Bastogne-Liège, Per Strand Hagenes tested his legs. The young Norwegian attacked with the best climbers, but was not able to stay away.

After the last remaining breakaway rider was caught, Hagenes saw his opportunity to try again. He and two other riders created a small gap, but the sprinters did not let themselves be surprised. Trentin won and Van Dijke had to settle for sixth place.

"We knew the stage would be tough, but not tough enough for the peloton to explode. That's why we chose to make the race hard ourselves,", sports director Maarten Wynants said. "Per was very good and did a late attempt in the last three kilometres. Unfortunately, he just didn't make it to the line. Mick then rode a good sprint and finished sixth."

Winning a stage is still the goal. "The way we rode today offers perspective for tomorrow. Including the climb of the Oude Kwaremont, it promises to be another difficult day. We have one more chance and we want to take it."