Tom Dumoulin mounts the final of the Amstel Gold Race in a house in the Cauberg | Cycling

The winner of the 2017 Giro sat there in an interactive bike trainer, with a screen in front of which he watched the course. Dumoulin started the last 26 kilometers of the Gold Race, with vicious climbs such as Keutenberg and Cauberg. Just like in real life, the digital finish was on Vilt. The version of the virtual tour of the Gold Race could be followed live on Facebook.

“This is a wonderful solution,” said race director Leo van Vliet. “But I hope we can really compete this year.” Because look at Tom, you shouldn’t be riding an exercise bike for about six months. I also ride such a thing in winter. But when you see the sun and it’s 20 degrees, you quickly yearn to get out again. ”

Tom Dumoulin in his “home”

Ⓒ EPA

Van Vliet hopes that the Gold Race, which had to be postponed due to the crown virus, can still be held later this year. “But first we must have solved something terrible in the world. A lot of people are working on it. I look on the bright side, I still think we can ride this year. But if it is not possible, then it is not possible.”

Due to physical issues in the spring, Dumoulin is still awaiting his official debut for Jumbo-Visma. Limburger, 29, heard this week that the Tour has been postponed for two months and now begins in late August. “I think there is a good chance that it will not come true yet,” Dumoulin said. “But for the same money too, this is the best possible option. It doesn’t make sense for me to train hard now and get very tired. I try to stay fit and in shape. If it turns out that prices are going to take place, there is still plenty of time to increase. “