The cycling world is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events as the 49th edition of the Classic Brugge-De Panne is set to take place on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. This race has a storied history, having been a fixture of the spring calendar since 1977, but underwent a significant transformation in 2018 when it shifted from a three-day event to a one-day classic, now aligning alongside the one-day competition for women held the following day.
This year, the race begins in Brugge and concludes in De Panne, spanning a pan-flat 197 kilometers. With minimal elevation gain—around 250 meters throughout the day—the course is deceptive in its simplicity, offering sprinters a prime opportunity to shine. Riders will complete three laps around a long circuit that includes the towns of Koksijde and Veurne, optimizing conditions for a major sprint finish.
Expectations are high, especially for defending champion Jasper Philipsen of Alpecin-Deceuninck, who aims for a historic third consecutive victory. Joining him in the race for the win are formidable competitors like Tim Merlier, Jonathan Milan, Olav Kooij, Sam Welsford, Fabio Jakobsen, Arnaud Démare, and Dylan Groenewegen. The atmosphere promises to be electric as these sprinters vie for supremacy on the streets of Belgium.
However, the race is not without its challenges. Weather predictions indicate winds from the north-northeast, which could lead to crosswinds during the initial 55 kilometers. Riders will need to be acutely aware of potential splits in the peloton, as the flatlands are notoriously exposed. Although less gusty during the final circuits, the last few kilometers will see a headwind that could complicate sprinting strategies.
This year’s favorites have been determined not only by their past performances but also their recent form. Tim Merlier, for instance, has established himself as one of the top sprinters early in the 2025 season, with several recent victories. Merlier expressed modesty regarding his prospects, stating, “It’s not up to me to say things like this. It’s up to you guys to say it or don’t say it,” while maintaining a focus on maximizing his opportunities.
Jonathan Milan, just 24, has also garnered attention, matching Merlier's sprint victories and proving himself consistent in top three finishes. He noted, "My best result was 39th in 2022," indicating optimism about his improved chances this year.
Among other contenders, Jasper Philipsen is eager to add to his legacy. Notably, he has shown persistent prowess in the lead-up races, aiming to become the second cyclist to secure three wins in succession. Philipsen always comes to the line with support, and if his team facilitates his a strong last lead-out, he could very well claim victory again.
In the realm of betting odds, Tim Merlier is the favourite at +162, followed closely by Jonathan Milan at +225, and Philipsen at +600. Olav Kooij is also noted for his chances with odds of +700, while sprinters like Soren Waerenskjold (2500), Dylan Groenewegen (2800), and others fill out the competitive landscape.
As for the broadcasting of the event, fans can follow the Classic Brugge-De Panne across a variety of platforms. Viewers in the UK can catch the action on TNT Sports and Discovery+, while fans in the USA will find it streaming on FloBikes for approximately $29.99 monthly or $149.99 for a year. In Belgium, significant portions of the race will be shown on Sporza, catering to local viewers, whereas French-speaking audiences can turn to RTBF.
Australia's cycling aficionados will also have the opportunity to watch via SBS for free, while Canadian viewers are expected to tune in on FloBikes as well, which is priced similarly in both regions. The increased international accessibility marks a continued effort to widen the sport's reach beyond European borders.
As the race day approaches, anticipation builds for what’s expected to be a thrilling sprint race, showcasing the best of cycling talent in one of the flat sections of Flanders. Watching the peloton navigate the exposed routes while jockeying for lead-out positioning will undoubtedly deliver an exciting spectacle. The likes of Milan, Philipsen, and Merlier will not only be fighting for the top spot in Brugge-De Panne but will also carry forward significant momentum as they approach the upcoming Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix.
With stakes that are higher than ever, the Classic Brugge-De Panne this year promises to deliver not just a race, but a canvas of drama, as elite riders clash in a battle of speed, strategy, and resilience. Cycling fans worldwide will want to tune in, as the conclusion is bound to be a breathtaking sprint showdown.
