The Giro delle Fiandre 2025 is set to be a thrilling spectacle as top cyclists prepare for one of the season's most prestigious races. Scheduled for Sunday, April 6, 2025, the 109th edition of this iconic event will see riders tackle a grueling 269-kilometer course featuring seven short cobblestone sections and an impressive 16 climbs of the famed Flemish hills.
Among the favorites are Mathieu Van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck) and Tadej Pogacar (UAE Emirates XRG), both of whom have established themselves as formidable competitors in recent years. Van der Poel, a three-time winner of the event, is eager to achieve a record fourth victory, while Pogacar, who triumphed in 2023, aims to solidify his status as a dominant force in cycling.
However, the competition is expected to be fierce, with Mads Pedersen (Lidl-Trek) emerging as a potential dark horse. After clinching victory at the Gand-Wevelgem the previous week, Pedersen approaches the race with renewed confidence and a determination to disrupt the plans of the two frontrunners. "I consider myself one of the outsiders," Pedersen stated during a press conference. "Van der Poel and Pogacar are better climbers than me, so I’ll need to devise a plan to beat them. But I’m happy they’re here because they attract even more attention to the race. I want to do my best and achieve the best result possible."
Pedersen, 29, acknowledges the challenges ahead of him, particularly the need for a special day and a strategic approach to outmaneuver his rivals. "Attacking early? For some, that might be the right tactic, but doing it too soon is pointless," he explained. "I can’t attack 140 kilometers from the finish line; that wouldn’t make sense. It all depends on how the race unfolds. I will definitely follow my instincts, but I can’t just wait to see what Van der Poel and Pogacar do; I have to take action myself. But I won’t tell you how or when I’ll do it."
The race kicks off at 10:00 AM from Bruges, with the finish line expected to be crossed around 4:45 PM. It will be broadcast live on Eurosport 1 and streamed on platforms like Sky Go and NOW. Fans can also follow the women's race, which starts at 1:10 PM in Oudenaarde, concluding around 5:30 PM. Last year, Elisa Longo Borghini claimed victory in the women's event, having recently won the "Attraverso Le Fiandre" on April 2, 2025.
The Giro delle Fiandre is often referred to as the "University of cycling" due to its challenging nature and the demanding climbs that test the mettle of even the most seasoned cyclists. The course includes iconic climbs such as the Oude Kwaremont, Paterberg, and Koppenberg, which are notorious for their steep gradients and cobbled surfaces. These climbs, combined with unpredictable weather conditions, make the race a true test of endurance and skill.
As history has shown, the Giro delle Fiandre is not just a race; it is a national celebration in Belgium, drawing approximately one million spectators who come to witness the drama unfold. Tickets for prime viewing spots, such as those on the Kwaremont, can cost as much as 500 euros, reflecting the event's significance in the cycling calendar.
Reflecting on the race's storied past, Vincenzo Nibali once remarked, "Watching it on TV, I always wondered what it was like to be there. When I did it, I realized it’s like being in a washing machine for six hours." This sentiment captures the essence of the Giro delle Fiandre—a relentless battle against both the elements and the competition.
In addition to Van der Poel and Pogacar, other competitors to watch include Filippo Ganna, who is looking to make an impact despite being less specialized in the classics. Ganna’s recent performances have shown that he has found a new dimension in his racing style, and he could very well surprise the favorites.
The anticipation surrounding the event is palpable, especially considering the rivalry between Van der Poel and Pogacar, which has intensified over the last few seasons. Pogacar has expressed respect for Van der Poel, stating, "Mathieu hasn’t done anything wrong to me, so there’s no feeling of revenge on my part. Of course, I’m here to win. The Fiandre is tougher than Sanremo, and maybe he’ll be a little more tired than I am. But since he goes full gas, beating him won’t be easy at all."
As the riders prepare to take on the cobbled roads and steep climbs, the race promises to deliver excitement and drama. With the potential for surprises from underdogs like Pedersen and the fierce competition among the favorites, the Giro delle Fiandre 2025 is shaping up to be a memorable chapter in cycling history.
The legacy of the Giro continues to inspire new generations of cyclists, and with each passing year, the event evolves while staying true to its roots. As fans gear up for the race, the question remains: who will emerge victorious in the battle of the giants? Only time will tell as the cyclists take to the streets of Bruges, ready to conquer the challenges that lie ahead.
