On March 4, 2025, the cycling world will turn its attention to Le Samyn, one of the standout Belgian classics known for its challenging circuit and tactical racing. Holding its own among renowned races, the event typically attracts sprinters and classics specialists eager for glory.
This year, cyclists will race over 199 kilometers, starting from the flat stretches and the opening kilometers leading to the Côte de la Roquette, introducing the decisive local circuit. The iconic finish line awaits them back in Dour, featuring four laps of cobbled sections and two minor climbs. This finale will be as dramatic as it is challenging, with the uphill drag to the line promising to test even the fittest racers.
Le Samyn may not have the same prestige as other classics, but its winners list includes some prominent names. Niki Terpstra shone here with victories in both 2016 and 2018, solidifying his legacy. According to IDLProCycling.com, "Even though Le Samyn is less prestigious than the previous classics, the winners already include several great names. Terpstra has already been successful here: the Dutch rider won in 2016 and 2018 and finished third in 2019." Other notable victors like Tim Merlier, Matteo Trentin, and last year's champion, Laurenz Rex, will certainly add to the race's reputation.
This year’s race marks its 54th edition, still below the 200-kilometer mark but equally demanding. Competitors will tackle the Côte de la Roquette not just once but multiple times, making their way through the local lap dotted with tough slopes and cobblestone pathways.
The race will start at 06:35 AM EST and conclude around 11:20 AM EST, presenting favorable weather conditions with maximum temperatures around nine degrees Celsius, clear skies, and only light breezes, making for ideal racing conditions.
This year's lineup features some formidable competitors. Paul Magnier of Soudal Quick-Step stands out as the top favorite after showing impressive form early this season. "Much depends on how some riders come out of the previous classics. The riders who perform best in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne will probably also do well on Tuesday," remarked analysts at IDLProCycling.com as they reviewed the lineup.
Magnier won't be without competition. His teammate Martin Svrcek, along with Jordy Warlop and Warre Vangheluwe, could also challenge for the podium should the race scenario take unexpected turns. The defending champion, Rex from Intermarché-Wanty, returns to defend his title, bolstered by other strong team members like Hugo Page and Taco van der Hoorn.
The teams of XDS Astana and Groupama-FDJ are also vying for success, preparing either their powerful sprinters, Max Kanter and Matteo Malucelli, or untapped talents like Paul Penhoët who could spring surprises. Intermarché-Wanty’s strategy might focus on building on their success from the previous year, aiming for another strong showing. Their varied lineup enables versatility across different race scenarios.
Teams such as Alpecin-Deceuninck will look to Lars Boven and others like Simon Dehairs and Timo Kielich to utilize their climbing legs, enhancing their chances among the sprinters. Likewise, Arkéa-B&B Hotels brings previous winner Florian Sénéchal along with rising shooters like Jenthe Biermans and Amaury Capiot.
Bahrain-Victorious fields Alberto Bruttomesso, whose past success suggests he thrives under pressure, adding another layer to the competition’s intensity. Thoughts initially arose over Arnaud De Lie’s availability as he vanished from several start lists; nevertheless, confirmed participation intensifies the rivalry with Magnier.
Facing off against them are TotalEnergies with their full French roster of Thomas Gachignard, Emilien Jeannière, and Anthony Turgis, each focused on taking advantage of the tactical layers unique to Le Samyn.
The favorites are listed as Paul Magnier (Soudal Quick-Step) and Arnaud De Lie (Lotto) with dark horses like Laurenz Rex (Intermarché-Wanty) and Max Kanter (XDS Astana) hoping to capitalize on any lapses among the frontrunners. With so many capable cyclists, including strong competitors like Timo Kielich (Alpecin-Deceuninck) and Alec Segaert (Lotto), the race's uncertainty makes predictions difficult yet thrilling.
Le Samyn promises to deliver engaging cycling dynamics on its circuit, where tactical plays and risk-taking often define success. Riders will need to balance their endurance, strategy, and opportunistic racing, making the event as much about mental agility as physical capability. Without doubt, the race is poised to offer the kind of surprises and excitement associated with classic cycling, echoing its storied past as it creates new tales among today’s stars.