Some losses are promises of victories. That was the case Sunday to Philippe Gilbert. Gone too far, a little lonely, the world champion was unable to return to Roman Kreuziger, winner of the Amstel Gold Race. He had been surpassed by Alejandro Valverde, Simon Gerrans and intriguing Michal Kwiatkowski. All are still in contention Wednesday. They go to the Province of Hainaut Liège through the Namur with one goal: to be there when it counts, for the third and final climb of the Mur de Huy formidable (1.2 km 10% passing a 22 %).

All plus some others who were absent from the final of the Amstel: Peter Sagan, worn favorite disappeared in the Cauberg, which can be hard to believe he has found the punch in such a short time,'' Joaquim Purito ''Rodriguez, the defending champion, shot in the left thigh and hesitated 48 hours before embarking, Richie Porte, who comes to this classic officially help Sergio Henao, and even Alberto Contador, not very committed volunteer. Between a tired, a cripple, a deputy and a forced Gilbert seems more capable. Sunday, the Belgian showed great things leading the chase behind Kreuziger. This is not the Gilbert of 2011, the year of his only victory on the Fleche Wallonne. The 2013 will be a favorite without margin. The suspense wins.