UCI Europe Tour leader Edward Theuns (Topsport Vlaanderen) continued his remarkable breakthrough season by finishing third in today's Halle-Ingooigem.

"I really had to use a little bit of my speed to rjoined the peloton because I had been surprised. I'm happy that I finally managed to finish third. This is perhaps my thirtieth place in the top ten this season," Theuns told Het Nieuwsblad.

"I was led out very well by Oliver Naesen but with the headwind, I thought I would do well by staying in his wheel as long as possible. Suddenly, Bouhanni and Boeckmans launched the sprint and third place was the highest possible.  I still scored points for the UCI Europe Tour so it's all good. 

"I did not see the crash. That happened behind me. I heard the noise but did not know anything,

"I'm going to ride home quietly. A little bit of warming down and light training. The last two laps were raced fiercely but the run-up to the finale was very quiet. It is the ideal preparation for Sunday [the Belgian championships]."

Earlier today Het Nieuwsblad reported that Theuns has signed a contract with Trek.

"I have talked with Trek Factory, but I do not know more than you. I do not know where these rumors come from. Contracts can not be signed before August 1," he said.