The Omloop Mandel-Leie-Schelde, one of Belgium's most important races, delivered the tenth seasonal victory for the Soudal Quick-Step Devo Team. The man who secured the result was Renato Favero, the 20-year-old who celebrated his first success in the U23 ranks.

Favero, who finished fifth just weeks ago at Hel van Voerendaal, was one of 20 riders who managed to secure a place in the day's main breakaway, which formed 25 kilometers from the start of the 192 km race. The gap they opened proved sufficient to keep the chasers at bay, especially because the breakaway riders worked well together throughout. On the final lap, three kilometers from the finish, the Italian took the lead and quickly put distance between himself and his former companions, arriving solo at the Meulebeke finish line.

"I'm happy with this victory. I had a good feeling from the start, I was attentive the whole time and managed to get into the breakaway. We collaborated well and built a solid margin over the peloton. A couple of riders tried to attack in the finale, but we stayed together until three kilometers from the finish, when I attacked and pushed without looking back. Arriving alone and having time to celebrate this success was beautiful, it's a great day that I'll remember forever," an euphoric Renato said before the podium ceremony.