Wilco Kelderman experiences an unforgettable day once again. The Visma-Lease a Bike rider has been crowned national champion of the Netherlands at the end of an extraordinary solo performance, rightfully conquering the prestigious red, white and blue jersey that he will wear throughout the next season.

The experienced Dutch rider built his success with a surprise attack approximately 25 kilometers from the finish line. After spending much of the race in the leading group, Kelderman changed pace with a violent acceleration, leaving all his rivals behind. From that moment on began a long solo ride during which, kilometer after kilometer, he managed to fend off the comeback attempts of his pursuers until he raised his arms at the finish line.

A victory built with determination, experience and impeccable athletic condition, which gives the 34-year-old from Amersfoort one of the most significant successes of his long career.

The emotion was evident even in the words released just minutes after the finish. "It was an incredible feeling to cross the finish line with my hands raised. I haven't felt something like this for such a long time, actually since my Under 23 days. It wasn't in my plans to attack so early, but it quickly became clear that the race would be difficult to control from behind." The Visma-Lease a Bike rider managed the race with great ability, always maintaining his composure, and it was precisely this capability that led him to victory. "In the final lap I still had a good advantage, but you always keep asking yourself if they'll catch you. In the end I managed to hold on. Today everything went the right way. It's still hard to believe... honestly, I still can't believe it."

For Kelderman, this is a success that enriches a career built mainly on consistency at the highest level in major stage races. His best result remains third place in the 2020 Giro d'Italia general classification, an edition won by British rider Tao Geoghegan Hart, in which the Dutchman demonstrated all his value as a Grand Tour contender.

Despite the national title just conquered, Kelderman will not take part in the upcoming Tour de France. Visma-Lease a Bike has indeed chosen a different lineup for the Grande Boucle, leaving the Dutchman out of the selection.

The new national champion will return to racing in August at the Tour of Poland, while his next major appointment of the season will be the Tour of Luxembourg, scheduled to start on September 16th.

For a rider often prominent as a valuable domestique and team player, the national title represents a special recognition. Thanks to one of the finest performances of his recent career, Wilco Kelderman will finally be able to wear the jersey of Netherlands champion, a symbol of success pursued with patience and conquered with a splendid finisher's performance.