The Tour of Flanders is the only classic to have been held on German-occupied territory during the Second World War and in full agreement with the German command.[13] The Germans not only allowed and enjoyed the race but helped police the route as well.[14] This led to accusations of collaboration in an age where many Flemish nationalists had strong ties with Nazi Germany.[15][16] After the War, De Standaard and Het Algemeen Nieuws-Sportwereld were sequestered by the state and several journalists, largely non-sports reporters, were sentenced for collaboration.[17] Van Wijnendaele was forbidden to work as a journalist for life – a ban lifted when he produced a letter of support from General Montgomery, confirming that he had hidden downed British pilots during the war and had protected them in his house.[18]