The hilly classics began in earnest as the riders lined up in Maastricht for the start of the Amstel Gold Race. Seven former champions were present, including three-time and defending champion Philippe Gilbert. Other previous winners on show were Roman Kreuziger (2013), Enrico Gasparotto (2012), Damiano Cunego (2008), Stefan Schumacher (2007), Frank Schleck (2006) and Davide Rebellin (2004).
Gilbert is the hot favourite as he looks to add yet another victory to his to Cauberg scrapbook and he will have the backing of a strong BMC team. Going up against him will be the likes of world champion Michal Kwiatkowski (Etixx-QuickStep), Alejandro Valverde (Movistar), Joaquim Rodríguez (Katusha) and Daniel Martin (Cannondale-Garmin) if he wants to take victory.
On a sunny, but chilly morning in Maastricht, Cyclingnews caught up with many of the big contenders and a few who are hoping to cause an upset.
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Alejandro Valverde (Movistar)
“All of these three are good for me and just winning one makes your entire week,” Valverde told Cyclingnews on Sunday morning, “I’ve never won Amstel but I’m not fussy about which!”
“My condition’s very good, what you need is luck. But bringing in that extra section before the finish after the top of the Cauberg like that isn’t so great for me. I prefer the old Amstel finish.”
Dan Martin (Cannondale-Garmin)
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