Live broadcast across Flanders (M): The leading group of 11 contestants could bow out after a furious opening hour

Some riders will be out of the doldrums tomorrow in Roeselare: Alexander Christophe (UNO-X) after illness and Alberto Bitiol (EF Education-Easypost) and Marc Hirschi (UAE) after falling at the E3 Saxo Classic.

Michael Matthews (Jayco-Alula Team) has added the race between Roeselare and Waregem to his programme. He wants to improve his condition towards “the most beautiful of Flanders”.

“Alexander Christophe is back there again. He fell ill after Milan-San Remo. We thought there was nothing serious, until he had to travel to Ghent-Wevelgem. The disease had progressed and from that perspective it was not advisable to let him start.” Reports sporting director Gino van Oudenhove.

“Alberto Bitiol had a big fall at E3 and was hit hard. He knew right away that the impact could have serious consequences if he continued on his path. Hence his resignation. Bitiol was treated firmly and received the necessary care towards Flanders’ doormats “He is not at his best Yet, but everything will be fine. Moreover, he can continue working for the Tour of Flanders,” explains sporting director Ken Vanmarcke.

There is less good news again in Lotto-Dstny. “Jasper de Buest will not start. He is ill, and Sebastien Grenard is his replacement. It is another setback, after we saw all our classic riders Florian Vermeersch and Arnaud de Lee withdraw,” says sporting director Dirk Demolle.