Mattias Skjelmose bounces back from illness to win Andorra MoraBanc Clàssica

Mattias Skjelmose won the inaugural edition of the Andorra MoraBanc Clàssica, marking a successful comeback after nearly two months sidelined by illness. 

Skjelmose claimed victory in a sprint finish of five riders at the summit of the Coll de La Botella as Cristián Rodríguez (Arkéa-B&B Hotels), and Enric Mas (Movistar) rounded out the podium.

The Lidl-Trek rider missed out on a scheduled participation at either the Critérium du Dauphiné or the Tour de Suissewhile recovering from illness, but managed to find his form on his immediate return to racing at the Andorra MoraBanc Clàssica. The win comes at a crucial time for the Dane and will give him and the team confidence that their Tour de France plans will not have to be thrown out the window.

"I was sick for a long time and missed the Dauphiné and Suisse. Luckily, I could do this race and now I think the shape is there for the Tour," said Skjelmose after his victory in Andorra.

Skjelmose was also quick to credit his teammates for the support throughout the challenging mountainous terrain and explained how timing his effort was pivotal to his success. "I was feeling good all day, and the guys did a great job. I then did my own pace and knew I had a good sprint," Skjelmose explained.

"We wanted to see how I was going in this race. We'll see for the Tour de France, but after this race, I'm feeling more confident, Skjelmose stated.

All eyes will now turn to the upcoming Tour de France, and it's fair to say that both Skjelmose and Lidl-Trek will be feeling much more relieved and confident ahead of the start in Lille on July 5.