The anticipation is building as the 2025 edition of Dwars door Vlaanderen is set to unfold on April 2, with both the men’s and women’s races promising to deliver thrilling action. Starting in Roeselare and finishing in Waregem, this year’s race features a revised route that has seen the removal of the Kanarieberg climb, replaced by the Eikenberg, following last year’s tragic crash.
At 185 kilometers, the men’s race will see riders navigate a blend of cobbled sectors and climbs, while the women’s race covers 128.5 kilometers, showcasing the same challenging terrain. Both races are integral to the UCI WorldTour calendar, making them significant events in the lead-up to the prestigious Tour of Flanders.
The women’s race has gained a reputation for unpredictability since it joined the UCI calendar in 2017. Last year, Marianne Vos triumphed in a dramatic sprint finish, while the 2023 edition saw Demi Vollering execute a solo attack that secured her victory. This year, the route is designed to keep that unpredictability alive, with key climbs and technical sections likely to spur attacks as the race progresses.
Key climbs such as the Knokteberg (or Côte de Trieu) at 55 kilometers to go, followed by the Hotondberg and a series of punchy efforts including Mariaborrestraat, Eikenberg, Doorn, and Huisepontweg, will test the riders’ skills and endurance. The final 20 kilometers feature two passes of Herlegemstraat, a narrow and twisting section perfect for aggressive tactics.
As the defending champion, Vos will be a focal point in the race, coming off strong performances at the Trofeo Alfredo Binda and Sanremo Women. She will be joined by formidable competitors including Lotte Kopecky from SD Worx, who has consistently placed well in previous editions, and Chiara Consonni, who has a strong track record in this race.
Koepcky has finished in the top ten multiple times and is expected to be aggressive on the climbs, looking to either launch an attack or set up for a sprint finish. Meanwhile, Blanka Vas will also ride for SD Worx, providing a strong backup option. "I’m excited to race here again, especially with the changes in the route, which could open up new strategies for us," Kopecky said ahead of the race.
Elisa Balsamo returns to Dwars door Vlaanderen for the first time since 2019, and her sprinting ability could be crucial if the race comes down to a reduced group finish. Meanwhile, Elisa Longo Borghini, who has previously finished sixth at this event, is also expected to be active in the climbs, adding to the competitive mix.
In the men’s race, the lineup is equally impressive, featuring stars like Wout van Aert and Mads Pedersen. Both riders are considered favorites, bringing their strong sprinting and climbing capabilities to the fore. The men’s course, at 184.2 kilometers, includes seven cobbled sectors and ten climbs, with the first climb occurring after 68 kilometers.
Van Aert, who finished second in last year’s edition, is eager to claim victory this time around. "This race is a vital part of my preparation for the Tour of Flanders, and I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead," he stated. Pedersen, known for his explosive finishing speed, will also be a key player as he looks to capitalize on any opportunities that arise during the race.
The race organizers have made significant adjustments to the route to enhance safety and competition. The removal of the Kanarieberg, notorious for its steep gradients and previous crashes, has been a welcome change for both riders and teams. "Safety is paramount, and we believe these changes will create a more exciting race while ensuring the well-being of all participants," a spokesperson for the event noted.
With the race set to be broadcast live on various platforms, including TNT Sports and FloBikes, fans worldwide will have the chance to witness the action unfold. The men’s race is scheduled to start at 12:25 PM CET, while the women’s race kicks off at 1:40 PM CET, with coverage extending throughout the afternoon.
As the race day approaches, teams are finalizing their strategies and preparing for the unique challenges that Dwars door Vlaanderen presents. The unpredictable nature of the race means that anything can happen, and riders must be ready to adapt to the unfolding dynamics.
In addition to the top favorites, many dark horses are poised to make an impact. Riders like Puck Pieterse and Letizia Paternoster have shown strong form this spring and could surprise the field with a well-timed attack or a strong finish. Meanwhile, teams like Movistar and FDJ-Suez are bringing a mix of experienced riders and emerging talents who could shake up the standings.
The excitement surrounding Dwars door Vlaanderen is palpable, with both races expected to showcase the best of women’s and men’s cycling. As the final warm-up before the Tour of Flanders, this event will undoubtedly set the stage for a thrilling weekend of racing.
As the cyclists prepare to take on the challenging route from Roeselare to Waregem, fans can expect a day filled with intense competition, strategic maneuvers, and perhaps even a few surprises. With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, the 2025 Dwars door Vlaanderen is set to be a memorable chapter in the cycling calendar.
