Mischa Bredewold looks forward to return in Amstel Gold Race: "Good energy in the team"

Mischa Bredewold will start Sunday as the defending champion in the Amstel Gold Race. She has already shown she is in good form with a second place in the Brabantse Pijl. After that race, she spoke to the camera of WielerFlits looking ahead to the Amstel. 

According to Bredewold, the Brabantse Pijl was an important test for the SD Worx-Protime hill team. "It’s a new group. The classics are coming to an end and the Ardennes riders are joining in. Our goal was mainly to be sharp and not slip up. In the last few races, we weren’t always where we needed to be, so that was our primary objective. That went well, so I’m proud of the girls. That gives confidence for Sunday. We have good energy within the group," said Bredewold.

It seems likely that the Amstel will come down to a duel between the two strong squads of SD Worx-Protime and FDJ United-SUEZ with Demi Vollering. However, Bredewold doesn’t underestimate the other teams. "That comparison is mainly made by riders who have switched between those teams. I also don’t count out blocks like UAE ADQ and Visma | Lease a Bike. The peloton is getting stronger across the board, so it won’t just be a two-horse race on Sunday."

For the Dutchwoman, the Amstel Gold Race will also bring back many good memories. "I’m really looking forward to experiencing it all again. I hope I get to wear number one. As a former winner, it’s really cool to be at the start. I’m excited," concludes the former European champion.