Record number of Belgian medals at the World Time Trial

The world's best cyclists competed on a 43.3-kilometre course between Knokke and Bruges in the 28th World Time Trial. Only those riders capable of using a very high gear could claim the final victory on this very flat route, with a difference in altitude of barely 78 metres.

Filippo Ganna won, as he did the previous year, thanks to his excellent acceleration in the last few kilometres. The Italian therefore retained his title. Wout van Aert repeated his performance from last year in Imola (Italy) by finishing second. Inevitably disappointed, he had to settle once more for the title of vice-world champion.

This medal can be added to a record of achievement that is already exceptional. In addition to his second places at the 2020 World Championships in Imola, in both the road race and the time trial, the Herentals (Antwerp Province) native also won the silver medal in the road race at the Olympic Games in Tokyo in July.

Remco Evenepoel is enjoying his bronze medal. "Third behind these two guys is like winning," said the 21-year-old prodigy. Every time he is selected for the national team, he reaches the podium. In three years, he has competed in nine races at international – both European and World - championships, and won as many medals.

Florian Vermeersch also won a wonderful bronze medal in the U23 race, as did Alec Segaert in the junior category.