09:56
Best conditions
The weather in Bruges is worthy of a spring classic. The sky is bright blue, the wind is limited and you can see that from the spectators. The area around the start is filled with cycling fans.
09:50
Who does the race?
As already mentioned, we will most likely see no surprise winner. The route is very demanding in the second part and demands everything from the drivers. However, two names are at the top of the favorite list. Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin Deceuninck) and Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) have shown again and again in the past what impressive form they are. And: Both know how to win the Flanders Tour. Van der Poel did the last of three victories only last year. We should also be careful on Wout van Aert (Visma / Lease A Bike) or Mads Pedersen (Lidl – Trek) and of course a few more, strong drivers.
09:46
Possible key points
In a race with so many different aspects, there are still certain sections in which a lot can decide. Among other things, this includes the Oude Kwaremont after 128.9 kilometers, which counts as the first real increase and at least brings 104 meters of altitude. But the Paterberg after 218 kilometers could also show the direction. We must not forget the Koppenberg too. It was particularly difficult here last year because the rain had made the cobblestones very slippery. But today it should stay dry.
09:40
This is the route
Spring slowly picks up speed and it is time for the second monument of the year. It starts in Bruges, 268.9 kilometers later the destination is waiting in Oudenaarde. Depending on the speed, the first drivers are expected there between 4:15 p.m. and 4:50 p.m.
The first 109 kilometers are mostly flat. Except for a few short and non-relevant gradients, the route leads quite leisurely towards the south-east. But then it becomes more exciting. Many short gradients, often with cobblestones and only a little space, demand both technical skills as well as strength and endurance. 16 of these so -called Hellingen are available this year. Then there are a few more cobblestone passages. The race will therefore decide in the second half of the race, because there will be greatly sifted out there. Only the strongest drivers in the field will have a realistic chance of winning.
09:34
Welcome
Good morning and welcome to the Flanders Tour 2025. At ten o’clock the neutralized start is to take place in Bruges. A little later it starts with the sharp start.