Victor Campenaerts (Lotto Dstny) has won the fourth stage in the Tour of Luxembourg (2.Pro). He was the fastest in the 23.9 km time trial in and around Pétange, edging out Brandon McNulty (UAE Team Emirates) by just a second.

The former world hour record holder traveled to the Tour of Luxembourg with big ambition and aimed for a good general classification. However, he had a total off day on Friday and lost the chance of a good result. “Yesterday was a big disappointment for me,” says Campenaerts, “because I really wanted to do well here. The run-up to this race was not easy for me. My uncle, my godfather actually, Bob died just before the start of this race. It was very unexpected and, therefore, difficult for me and my father. He told me that there was no better way to honour him than to go to Luxembourg and win a for him. So I am very happy that I was able to take this time trial victory with Bob in my head.”

The difference with the American Brandon McNulty was less than one second. “It was very exciting at the end,” laughs Victor, “and it makes this victory even nicer because it was so close. Cycling is entertainment and winning by just one second makes it even more special.”

Last time Victor Campenaerts was able to cheer in a time trial was in the Tirreno-Adriatico in 2019. “I focused less on it in recent years,” says Victor, “but of course I still have that experience and I was particularly focused on this time trial. My girlfriend Nel has supported me very hard in recent months and I am very happy to take this victory, for her and especially for Bob.”

Picture: Vanvid Multimedia (archive)