Wout van Aert confirmed that he is currently the strongest cyclo-cross rider in the peloton when he won today's Bpost Bank Trofee race in Hamme-Zogge. However, the youngster plays down expectations and underlines that he will still not do a full elite schedule.

With wins in the Koppenbergcross and the World Cup race in Koksijde, Wout van Aert has had a fantastic debut at the pro level. Today he added the Bpost Bank Trofee race in Hamme-Zogge when he came out on top after an exciting duel with fellow youngster Mathieu van der Poel.

"Apparently, the condition is very good," the 20-year-old told Sporza. "A fast course is usually not very good for me.

"The circuit lent itself there to a tactical game. When (teammate, ed.) Jens Adams attacked, I left a hole so for a long time I was able to follow wheels."

After victories in Koksijde and Koppenberg, Van Aert was took his third win in the pro ranks "Of course I don't ride the full pro circuit. I choose my races and like it that way.

"Whether I am going to ride the Worlds with the pros? No, I will defend my U23 title and do a battle against Mathieu van der Poel. It would not be a good idea to do too much this winter because I also want to win races in ten years."