Every year the Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws presents the “Crystal Bike” award to the best Belgian rider of the season. The winner of the award is determined by votes from journalists, previous winners, national coaches, officials of the cycling federations and other prominent members of the cycling world.
This year Philippe Gilbert took the honors over, Stijn Devolder, followed by Tom Boonen. In forth place was cyclocross champion Sven Nys ahead of Greg Van Avermaet. In 2008 Gilbert won both Omloop Het Volk and Paris-Tours.
The Het Laatste Nieuws “Sweat drop” award went to Mario Aerts. The award is given to recognize the best domestique of the year. Aerts edged out his retiring Silence-Lotto teammate Wim Vansevenant. Johan Bruyneel won the team leaders’ award, and Jan Bakelants was elected best young rider.