Eurométropole Tour / Binche-Chimay-Binche – IAM Cycling fighting for a 20th victory –

THE TACTICS

“The season is coming to an end, and IAM Cycling is preparing to participate in two very exciting races,” directeur sportif Thierry Marichal explained. “Eurometropole Tour can offer up its share of surprises. It is a race that we do not know in its current format. Several scenarios are possible, and we have the right selection of riders to be active: Sondre Holst Enger, Oliver Naesen and Dries Devenyns among others. As for Binche, Jonas Van Genechten will be added to the group. He is also in the condition to shine in this event. Both races are a great opportunity for us to add to our wins this season with a 20th victory.”

THE MOTIVATION

Of Oliver Naesen: “I like the late season races, and added to that, this time it is basically in my own backyard here in Belgium,” the Flemish rider admits. “In 2014, I finished 6th in the Binche-Chimay-Binche. I like this finish with the cobbles and the false flat. At this time of year, the peloton is usually pretty worn out. As for myself, I have come out of the ENECO Tour in great shape, and full of confidence. I am motivated to get a good result.”

THE TEAMMATE

Marcel Aregger. “My role will be mostly to help my leaders, including Oliver Naesen. Having taken second at the recent ENECO TOUR, he has demonstrated that he is in great condition. My first concern will be to support him as well as possible. But I can’t help, also, to have a slight feeling of nostalgia. I still don’t have a contract for next year, and these two races could be the last of my career. I want to enjoy every moment, have fun on my bike, and have no regrets at the end.”

THE OBSTACLES

The climbs and the cobblestones that close out the circuit. In Belgium, the season starts and ends the same way. The new route for the Eurométropole Tour is not without its difficulties. They include seven times up the Col de la Croix Jubaru, with the last time the pack summiting it coming just 5.5 kilometers from the finish line. In contrast, the Binche-Chimay-Binche route remains the same as in previous years. With a sequence of climbs to attack before the finishing circuit that features some pavé, it offers the sort of course that should appeal to the punchy sprinters in the peloton.

LINE-UP Eurométropole Tour

LINE-UP Binche-Chimay-Binche

Pictures – BettiniPhoto &  IAM Cycling