Today, Sunday, March 30, 2025, cycling enthusiasts around the world are gearing up for the highly anticipated Gand-Wevelgem race, one of the most prestigious classics in the international cycling calendar. The race kicks off in Ypres and will conclude in Wevelgem after an arduous 250.3 kilometers of challenging terrain.
As the peloton prepares to tackle this grueling course, all eyes are on Mads Pedersen, the defending champion, who is looking to secure back-to-back victories. He will face stiff competition from a strong field, including Filippo Ganna, fresh off his impressive performance at the Milano-Sanremo, and Jonathan Milan, who is eager to make his mark.
The Gand-Wevelgem is not just another race; it marks the beginning of the "trittico del pavé," a trio of classic races that test the limits of even the most seasoned cyclists. This year’s route is traditional yet treacherous, featuring a mix of flat stretches and steep climbs that are notorious for their wind exposure and difficulty.
The race will see riders take on several key climbs, including Scherpenberg, Baneberg, Monteberg, and the infamous Kemmelberg, which will be ascended three times throughout the day. The final climb from the Ossuaire side, occurring just 34.3 kilometers from the finish line, is expected to be a decisive moment in the race, where tactics and endurance will play a crucial role.
Starting at 10:40 AM, the race is set to unfold over a course that offers both opportunities and challenges. The expected finish time is around 4:20 PM, and fans can catch all the action live on Eurosport 2, with streaming available via Discovery+, SkyGo, and NOW.
As for the favorites, Mads Pedersen stands out as the man to beat. After his stunning win last year against Mathieu van der Poel, who will not be participating this time, Pedersen aims to repeat his success. The absence of major competitors like Van der Poel and Pogacar could level the playing field, creating an exciting and unpredictable race.
Filippo Ganna is another name to watch. Known for his time-trialing prowess, Ganna is hoping to convert his recent form into a strong performance at Gand-Wevelgem, where he aims to break the Italian drought in this race that has lasted over a decade. Jonathan Milan, also from the Lidl-Trek team, is expected to provide a strong challenge, especially if the race comes down to a sprint finish.
The competition is fierce, with other notable sprinters like Jasper Philipsen from Alpecin-Deceuninck, who is stepping up in the absence of Van der Poel, and Tim Merlier from Soudal Quick-Step, both of whom are capable of clinching victory if the race culminates in a sprint. The likes of Biniam Girmay, who won this race in 2022, and Alexander Kristoff from Uno-X Mobility are also among those who could surprise the frontrunners.
With the wind likely to play a significant role in the race dynamics, the flat stretches early on could see the peloton break apart, setting the stage for the climbers and sprinters to showcase their strengths. The climbs, particularly the repeated ascents of the Kemmelberg, are expected to test the riders’ resilience and tactical acumen.
As the race unfolds, cycling fans are reminded to tune in starting at 1:40 PM on Eurosport 2, where they can witness the drama of the Gand-Wevelgem live. The race promises to deliver excitement and unpredictability, with every pedal stroke counting towards the ultimate glory.
In conclusion, the Gand-Wevelgem 2025 is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with a blend of seasoned champions and hungry challengers. As the cyclists embark on this challenging journey from Ypres to Wevelgem, the anticipation builds for what could be a historic day in the world of cycling.
