Degenkolb en Kopecky sprint to victory in Giro Rosa and Luxembourg

Great day for Lotto Soudal. John Degenkolb sprinted to his first 2020 win in Skoda Tour de Luxembourg. In a bunch sprint John was the fastest in Schifflange. The 31-year-old German preceded Eduard Grosu and Pieter Vanspeybrouck. It is his first victory for team Lotto Soudal.

John Degenkolb:

“We had something to make up after two difficult opening stages here in Luxembourg. Especially since Tomasz MarczyÅ„ski and Harm Vanhoucke could not start this morning because of the isolation measures. That was a setback for Lotto Soudal and we only started the stage with four remaining riders.”

“I was well protected end kept out of the wind by my teammates. We are working together so well. In the final kilometers Tosh Van der Sande did a tremendous job leading me out. I am so so happy with victory. It is nice to give something back to the team and the fact that this is my first win for Lotto Soudal makes it extra special.”

“This win comes only 19 days after my crash in the opening stage in Tour de France. This victory is a sign that I was in a really good shape starting the Tour. The knee is getting better, at the moment I don’t feel pain anymore.

“There are still some chances left for the team in the next two stages, but not for me. I will support Tim, Tosh and Phil in the next stages. Tim is feeling better and better and can target the general classification.”

“I am also selected for the world championships next week. This selection might come as a surprise for some, but today’s win is proof of my good form. The course in Imola does not suit my characteristics, so I will ride in a support role for Germany.”