Belgium's Greg Van Avermaert spoke to Belgian media at the World Championships men's elite road race in Imola, Italy.

"I think Wout has proved himself more than I have in the last few weeks," Van Avermaat told Het Laatste Nieuws on Thursday evening. So it is only natural that Wout is the leader of this team and gets all the help he needs. I still have my value in this team."

Van Aert, who finished second in the elite men's time trial on Friday, proved he is still in the form that earned him two stage wins in this year's Tour, supported by Jumbo-Visma team leader Primoš Roglic.

"It will be a very difficult race, an elimination race," Van Avermaat said of Sunday's event.

"I think some racers are a little intimidated by this course. 'There are a lot of climbs and the course is not to be underestimated. It will be difficult enough for the favorites to make a difference and the best will win."

"For me, the course seems similar to Strade Bianche.

"The World Championships is a race that suits both the athletes who do well in the Ardennes Classics and those who do well in the Flanders (cobbled) Classics.

Van Avermaat, who will leave the CCC team at the end of this year to join AG2R La Mondiale in 2021, has yet to win in this shortened 2020 season, but following the World Championships, the 35-year-old will be back this October in the "Spring " classic, which will be held this October.