Kristoff 3rd in Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne

Alexander Kristoff sealed off a successful opening classics weekend with 3rd place in Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne (1.Pro).

The reduced peloton failed to haul back winner Kasper Asgreen (DQS) with Kristoff opening up the sprint to the line early only being passed by Italian Giacomo Nizzolo (NTT) in the final metres.

Mikkel Bjerg was victim of a puncture from the breakaway with 50km remaining, with a slow change by the neutral car costing the young Dane his place in the front.

Kristoff will now head to Paris-Nice with confidence and seeking his first win of the season.

Alexander Kristoff : “When I made the first selection over the Kwaremont climb I knew the legs were good. I went a bit early in the sprint but it’s still a good result for me. Yesterday didn’t go to plan so to get on the podium today is really nice.  Bjerg had a strong ride too but had some bad luck with the puncture. With the high level here I think a podium is a good result for the opening weekend.”

 
Results

1. Kasper Asgreen (DQS) 4h47’18’’

2.Giacomo Nizzolo (NTT) +3’’

3.Alexander Kristoff (UAE Team Emirates) +3’’