Mads P, as he is known by Danes, was reigning champion and favourite to win again, but this win was remarkable, and exceeded his own expectations.
After 190 Kilometers and with 60 Kilometers to go, Pedersen said goodbye to his break away group, and launched his solo mission.
The Danish Lidl-Trek captain quickly got momentum, and with 35 kilometers to go he had a 2:00 min lead, which was enough to keep the chasing peloton away, as he faced the wind.
Mads Pedersen succeeded and crossed the finish line first with the peloton 49 seconds behind.
After the win Pedersen concluded with a smile:
“Now, I know how Tadej (Pogacar red.) and Mathieu (Van der Poel red.) feel,” referring to two fellow cycling stars, known for their long solo rides.
The win was Mads Pedersen’s third victory in Gent – Wewelgem