Boost for Soudal Quick-Step: Jasper Stuyven recovers in time for Paris-Nice

Jasper Stuyven had to withdraw from the Flemish opening weekend due to illness, but he will be present on Sunday when the team starts the 84th edition of Paris-Nice (March 8-15). For the experienced rider, the 'Race to the Sun' is an important stepping stone toward the major spring classics.

Stuyven kicked off his season last month at the Volta ao Algarve but had to abandon after just three stages due to illness. Initially, the team was not worried about the upcoming Flemish spring classics, but the rider from Leuven ultimately had to skip Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne.

For 33-year-old Stuyven, this was a very bitter pill to swallow, but fortunately, he can now look ahead. The classics specialist is fit enough again to put on a race number. "We are happy to see Jasper back in action. He will try to find his rhythm in the first stages, but Paris-Nice is a good opportunity to get back into shape," his team Soudal Quick-Step looks ahead.

'Strong squad' with Eenkhoorn as well
The Belgian team is further counting on sprinter Alberto Dainese, climbers Steff Cras and Valentin Paret-Peintre, all-rounders Pascal Eenkhoorn and Casper Pedersen, and sprint lead-out Bert Van Lerberghe.

"We are counting on a strong squad and are really looking forward to this race," team director Tom Steels said. "There will be opportunities for Valentin and Steff, but Alberto could also fight for a good result, as he can handle tough sprints."