28/09/2025 - Jemeppe (BvB)

The final round of the Belgian Cup took place last weekend, and Gilles's team lined up at the start with confidence. With three riders in the top three of the standings and a solid third place in the team standings (out of 25 teams), the plan was clear: control the race and take charge.

Gilles, along with a few teammates, was given a specific assignment: to be alert during the first hour of the race and react to attack attempts. That turned out to be a successful mission. After a series of counter-attacks, he ended up in an early breakaway of six riders, which grew into a leading group of fifteen. The lead increased to 27 seconds, and Gilles played his role as a 'tough opponent' perfectly, ensuring the breakaway never became truly dangerous.

After 40 kilometers, the race was temporarily neutralized due to a serious crash in the peloton. Three riders had to be taken away. We wish those involved a speedy recovery.

After the restart, the breakaway regained their lead, but the peloton had managed to make arrangements. On the very next climb, one of the nine on the course, Gilles' team completely closed the gap. His task was done, and he was given a free role in service of the three leaders.

But fate had other plans. 15 kilometers from the finish, at a narrowing of the road, Gilles was forced into a perilous situation by a reckless rider. The choice: crash into a flowerbed or dive into a gap next to the flowerbed that was too small. He chose the latter, but the gap turned out to be just too narrow. His right pedal was ripped from the crank.

Gilles calmly parked his bike and waited for his spare. With still fresh legs, he began an impressive chase, starting from around 100th place. The peloton was out of reach, but he still managed to finish 89th out of 128 participants.

There was no disappointment for Gilles; on the contrary. He carried out his assignment exemplarily, received congratulations from the team coach, and saw teammate Wannes finish second. The bad luck was beyond his control, but his resilience and commitment spoke volumes.

The season finale follows next weekend. With this performance in mind, he looks ahead with confidence.