On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the 111th edition of Liège-Bastogne-Liège, the oldest of the classic cycling races, will unfold across the picturesque yet challenging terrain of the Belgian Ardennes. Known as "La Doyenne," this prestigious race promises a thrilling spectacle as elite cyclists tackle a grueling 252-kilometer course, filled with steep climbs and breathtaking landscapes that test their endurance and skill.
The race kicks off in Liège and heads south through Aywaille, featuring a lengthy 23-kilometer false flat leading to Manhay. Riders will first ascend La Baraque de Fraiture, a 6.9-kilometer climb with an average gradient of 2.9%, reaching an altitude of 644 meters, one of Belgium's highest points. Following this, competitors will face the steep Côte de St-Roch, a punishing 900-meter ascent averaging 11.3%, with a particularly brutal section peaking at 18%.
As the race progresses, the Col de Haussire, a 3.9-kilometer climb at 6.9%, awaits the cyclists, followed by a lengthy 13-kilometer false flat. The course then introduces a sequence of four challenging climbs within a 23-kilometer stretch: Mont-le-Soie (1.8 km at 6.4%), Wanne (1.6 km at 9.9%), Stockeu (1.6 km at 12.5%), and Haute-Levée (3.6 km at 5.6%). Each of these ascents is designed to wear down the peloton, setting the stage for the decisive moments later in the race.
After passing through Francorchamps, riders will tackle the Col du Rosier, a 4.4-kilometer climb averaging 5.9%. This climb is notorious for its challenging ramps, especially at its base, where gradients exceed 9%. Following a descent into Spa, competitors will face the Côte de Desnié, a 1.6-kilometer ascent at 8.1%, which has replaced the Col du Maquisard in recent years.
One of the most iconic climbs, La Redoute, looms large on the horizon. This 2-kilometer ascent, averaging 8.9%, features punishing ramps that range from 8% to a staggering 22%. Since the course's recent alterations, La Redoute has regained its status as a pivotal point in the race, with previous champions like Remco Evenepoel and Tadej Pogacar launching decisive attacks here.
As the race nears its conclusion, the Côte des Forges (1.5 km at 6.9%) and the Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons (1.3 km at 11%) stand between the riders and the finish line. The summit of the Roche-aux-Faucons is located just 13.5 kilometers from the finish, making it a critical juncture for any final attacks.
The finish line awaits on the Quai des Ardennes in Liège, where a 900-meter straight stretch leads to the grand finale. This year's race is particularly exciting as Tadej Pogacar, the defending champion, aims to retain his title against a formidable field that includes Remco Evenepoel, last year’s runner-up, and rising star Lotte Kopecky.
On Saturday, April 26, the excitement built as the cyclists were presented to fans at Place Saint-Lambert in Liège. The event featured prominent figures like Evenepoel, Kopecky, and Thibau Nys, who took the opportunity to engage with supporters ahead of the race. Local hero Loïc Vliegen, the only cyclist from Liège competing, received a warm welcome from the hometown crowd, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
The race will be broadcast live on Tipik and La Une, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the action. With its storied history dating back to 1892, Liège-Bastogne-Liège is not just a race; it’s a celebration of cycling that attracts top talent from around the world.
This year’s iteration of the race is expected to be fiercely competitive, with climbers and punchers alike eyeing the coveted victory. As the cyclists navigate the challenging climbs and steep descents, every pedal stroke will count, and the drama is sure to unfold in spectacular fashion.
With the race set to begin, anticipation is palpable. Will Pogacar successfully defend his title, or will a new champion emerge from the shadows of the Ardennes? As the cyclists prepare for the grueling 252 kilometers ahead, fans can only wait and watch as history unfolds once again in this legendary classic.
