Ridolfo Completes Gruelling Antwerp Port Epic 

Filippo Ridolfo showed real grit and determination for Team Novo Nordisk at the Antwerp Port Epic / Sels Trophy, riding to the finish of one of Belgian cycling’s most demanding one-day races across 196km of roads, cobbles, and unforgiving gravel sectors in and around Antwerp. 

The race lived up to its reputation as one of the most brutal tests on the calendar, with the relentless gravel sections and fierce racing pace taking a heavy toll on the peloton throughout the day. In conditions that demanded both physical resilience and mental fortitude, Ridolfo kept his head down and fought all the way to the finish – a testament to the hard work and dedication he has shown throughout the season. 

“During the first 60km there were some attacks but the group stayed at a steady pace. The gravel then started and I found myself falling back” Ridolfo said, “that’s when the real race started, and after a while of pushing and pulling I couldn’t make the 9-man breakaway but I found myself in the first group. Some cramps towards the end but the legs actually felt really good and overall it was a fun race.” 

The team now turns its attention to the coming days, with both the Circuit Franco-Belge and the Tour of Estonia on the horizon – two races that will offer the opportunity to build on the experiences of a demanding Belgian campaign and push for stronger results as the season continues to take shape.