Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck) showcased his dominance in the cycling world once again by winning the E3 Saxo Classic on March 28, 2025, with an impressive solo breakaway of nearly 40 kilometers. The race, often seen as a precursor to the Ronde van Vlaanderen, saw Van der Poel attacking decisively on the Oude Kwaremont, leaving his competitors trailing in his wake.
With Tadej Pogacar absent from the start line, the stage was set for Van der Poel to shine. He executed a masterclass in racing strategy, launching his attack at a crucial moment and maintaining a significant lead throughout the final stretch. Mads Pedersen finished second, crossing the line a minute and six seconds behind, while Filippo Ganna took third, finishing two minutes and five seconds after the winner.
Wout van Aert, who had been expected to challenge for the title, found himself poorly positioned when the race opened up on the Taaienberg and could not recover to make an impact in the final kilometers. His team, Visma-Lease a Bike, struggled to keep pace with the front runners, leaving Van Aert to finish without a significant role in the race.
Mathieu van der Poel's victory marks his fourth consecutive win in one-day races for the year 2025, having previously triumphed in Le Samyn and Milan-Sanremo. His performance at the E3 Saxo Classic further cements his status as the top favorite heading into the Ronde van Vlaanderen, where he will be looking to defend his title.
The race unfolded over a challenging route that included 16 hills within the last 100 kilometers, making it a grueling test for the riders. The early stages were marked by aggressive riding, with several attempts to break away from the peloton. However, it was on the Oude Kwaremont that Van der Poel made his decisive move, leaving behind a group that included Mads Pedersen and Filippo Ganna.
As the race progressed, the time gaps began to widen. At 15 kilometers to go, Van der Poel had established a lead of one minute over Pedersen, who was struggling to keep pace. The time differences were telling, with Ganna trailing by 1:25 and the chasing group, which included Casper Pedersen, Aimé De Gendt, and others, falling further behind by over three minutes.
Despite a rain shower that made the roads slippery, Van der Poel maintained his composure, nearly going off the road on the Varent kasseien but expertly recovering. His ability to navigate the challenging conditions showcased not only his physical prowess but also his skills as a rider.
In the final kilometers, Van der Poel's lead was so secure that he could afford to celebrate in style, giving a thumbs-up to the camera as he approached the finish line. His time of 4:39:14 was a testament to his dominance in the race.
Behind him, Mads Pedersen and Filippo Ganna battled for the remaining podium spots, with Pedersen ultimately crossing the line in second place, followed by Ganna in third. Casper Pedersen sprinted to claim fourth, while Jasper Stuyven, Stefan Küng, Aimé De Gendt, Tim Wellens, Matteo Jorgenson, and Mike Teunissen rounded out the top ten, all finishing within two and a half minutes of the winner.
The race was not without its challenges, as early crashes saw three riders from Soudal-Quick Step abandon the race, including Gil Gelders, Jordi Warlop, and Dries Van Gestel. Their departure was a significant blow to the team, which had hoped to contend for a strong finish.
As the cycling world turns its attention to the Ronde van Vlaanderen, the E3 Saxo Classic has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting showdown. Van der Poel's current form suggests he will be a formidable opponent, while Van Aert will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing performance.
With the next major race just around the corner, fans are eager to see if Van der Poel can continue his winning streak or if a resurgent Van Aert can reclaim his title as the king of the Flemish classics.
