Although some feel that there’s a lot of pressure on his shoulders after riding well but missing out on the win in a number of races this year, Milan-Sanremo and Gent-Wevelgem included, Fabian Cancellara was relaxed at the start line of the Ronde Van Vlaanderen this morning.
The RadioShack Nissan rider is aiming for what would be his second victory in the race, having soloed to a superb victory two years ago and then finished third last year.
Thus far this year, he’s got two wins to his credit: the time trial in Tirreno Adriatico, and victory in the Strade Bianche race. Today’s the chance to take the third, and he seemed in a positive frame of mind shortly before the start.
“I feel just happy. That is the way it is. Let’s go and race the race. I am looking forward to it for many months, many weeks,” he told Sporza. “At the end of he day it’s a bike race…but a special one.”
Cancellara is known as being arguably the strongest rider in races such as this one, but that is something which has also led to him being closely marked. In addition, he appears to rely to much on his strength at times, as was seen in Milan Sanremo. The powerhorse of the final break, eventual winner Simon Gerrans (GreenEdge) profited from his workload to sit tight, then sprint clear for the victory.
Cancellara is up against many riders today, and also needs to play his cards right. However, when asked if he was scared about anyone or any particular situation, he shrugged off the notion.
“No, because I believe in myself, “ he answered, smiling. “I believe in the team, and believe in the strength of what I have been working for. That is the truth. I don’t need to lie. I have respect for the riders, I have respect for my competitors, that is the normal thing, but the rest [being scared], no.”