Van Gils celebrates stage win and Tuckwell's yellow jersey

Belgian cyclist Maxim Van Gils achieved a significant victory at Crest Voland, marking a triumphant return to the sport after a severe crash on February 16th. The win was particularly special for Van Gils, who had been sidelined since the Jaén Classic.

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It hasn't been an easy season until now, but I always maintained a positive attitude. I was sure I would come back. To prove now that it works is fantastic. Returning to this level means a lot; that's a victory in itself.

"It hasn't been an easy season until now, but I always maintained a positive attitude. I was sure I would come back. To prove now that it works is fantastic. Returning to this level means a lot; that's a victory in itself," Van Gils stated at the finish line. This marked his eighth professional win, emerging from a large breakaway group.

Van Gils emphasized the importance of his teammate Luke Tuckwell securing the yellow jersey as the race leader. "I didn't want to break away with too large a group at the end because then the resolution becomes a tactical matter. With Luke Tuckwell, we also have the yellow jersey, and that's fantastic. It couldn't be better," he said. He ultimately out-sprinted Tobias Halland Johannessen of Norway to claim the stage victory.

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I didn't want to break away with too large a group at the end because then the resolution becomes a tactical matter. With Luke Tuckwell, we also have the yellow jersey, and that's fantastic. It couldn't be better.

Reflecting on the competition, Van Gils added, "You should never underestimate the competition, but I knew I would have good chances in the sprint." His performance underscores a strong comeback and a successful day for his Red Bull Bora hansgrohe team.

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You should never underestimate the competition, but I knew I would have good chances in the sprint.