The excitement is building as the E3 Saxo Classic gears up for its 2025 edition, set to take place on Friday, March 28. Known as the hardest race based on the ratio of altitude meters to kilometers, this year’s event promises a thrilling showdown between cycling giants Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert.
The race, which starts and finishes in Harelbeke, spans a challenging 208 kilometers—63 kilometers shorter than the famed Tour of Flanders. But don’t let the shorter distance fool you; the E3 Saxo Classic is notorious for its grueling climbs and tactical racing. The Katteberg, La Houppe, and Kanarieberg are just a few of the climbs riders will face, with the Paterberg and Oude Kwaremont proving to be decisive.
As the riders tackle the course, they will encounter the first significant climb just 31 kilometers in at the Katteberg. From there, the pace intensifies, especially after 80 kilometers when La Houppe and Kanarieberg come into play. The Taaienberg, located after 125 kilometers, usually marks the beginning of serious splits in the peloton, setting the stage for a fierce battle among the favorites.
Last year, Mathieu van der Poel took home the victory, finishing one and a half minutes ahead of Jasper Stuyven. With Van der Poel in top form and hoping to defend his title, fans are eager to see if he can replicate his success. Meanwhile, Wout van Aert, the winner in 2022 and 2023, has been training in Tenerife and is eager to make a statement after a strong showing in Milaan-Sanremo.
Both riders are expected to face fierce competition from the likes of Mads Pedersen and Biniam Girmay, who are also eyeing a podium finish. The lineup is further bolstered by Filippo Ganna, who has shown his strength in previous races and will be looking to capitalize on any opportunity that arises.
As the E3 Saxo Classic approaches, fans are reminded that this year’s race will not be broadcast on Sporza, marking a significant shift in coverage. Instead, cycling enthusiasts can catch all the action live on VTM, Eurosport, and HBO Max. VTM will begin its coverage at 1:30 PM, Eurosport at 4:00 PM, and HBO Max at 2:00 PM, ensuring viewers won’t miss a moment of the action.
The weather on race day is expected to be relatively mild, with temperatures around 13 degrees Celsius and a light wind from the southwest. These conditions should make for an exciting race as riders navigate the challenging terrain.
For those planning to tune in, key moments to watch for include the Oude Kruisberg around 3:00 PM, the Taaienberg at 3:30 PM, and the Paterberg just before 4:30 PM. The race is anticipated to reach its climax between 5:15 PM and 5:50 PM, as riders sprint towards the finish line in Harelbeke.
The E3 Saxo Classic is not just a race; it’s a festival of cycling, and the organizers are determined to elevate the experience for fans and participants alike. With live performances and VIP packages, the event continues to grow in stature and appeal.
As the Heilige Week kicks off with this thrilling contest, all eyes will be on Harelbeke to see who will rise to the occasion and claim victory in one of cycling’s most prestigious races. Will Mathieu van der Poel defend his title, or will Wout van Aert reclaim his crown? The stage is set for an unforgettable showdown.
In addition to the top contenders, there are several long shots who could surprise the field, including Tim Wellens and Michael Matthews, both of whom have shown flashes of brilliance in past races. With such a competitive field, the E3 Saxo Classic is sure to deliver drama and excitement.
As fans prepare for the race, the anticipation is palpable. The E3 Saxo Classic has a rich history and continues to attract the best cyclists from around the globe, making it a must-watch event on the cycling calendar.
