The classic image of the midweek Ardennes Classics was also present in the 2021 edition. A front group of eight got away and the last escapee was caught in the final stage. Team Jumbo-Visma covered Roglic well. Robert Gesink and Sam Oomen, among others, countered a number of attacks on the penultimate climb of the day. On the all-decisive Mur de Huy it was exciting until the end.

Roglic spoke of a deserved victory for the world champion. “Julian was the strongest rider on the climb. He deserved to win. The final climb is really difficult and tough, but it’s one that suits me. I was in a good position and went for it. When you feel that the legs are good, you just have to attack. That is what I did. Unfortunately, I got caught up just before the finish. That’s racing.”

The defending champion of La Doyenne is already looking forward to the upcoming classics. “I’m looking forward to Liege-Bastogne-Liege. My form is good and I want to show again what I can do. Hopefully I can compete for the podium again.”