Laurent Pichon: "Kevin needs to feed off this experience"

“The Amstel Gold Race was the real kick-off to this campaign of Ardennes classics, with all the history it is known for: a long and demanding course. Our riders managed to avoid the pitfalls in the first part of the race. I don’t think they were shy today. They were all strategically placed and did the work for their leader. Kévin Vauquelin was there when the big guys came into action. He took the initiative not to stay in the Van der Poel peloton and pushed to the front of the race. Unfortunately, he lacked a bit at the end to stay in the group vying for the top 10. I’m obviously disappointed because we missed out on a great result. But for Kévin’s first time here, we also have to take positives. He needs to feed off this experience, which will serve him well for the races to come. Not everyone can do what he did. He’s shown that he’s up to the job and has what it takes to have a great week in the Ardennes.”