In a thrilling climax to the 2025 Amstel Gold Race, Mattias Skjelmose stunned the cycling world by clinching victory in a nail-biting photo finish against Tadej Pogacar and Remco Evenepoel. The race, held on April 20 in Valkenburg, Netherlands, was marked by dramatic turns and strategic maneuvers that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Skjelmose, riding for Lidl-Trek, achieved a career-defining moment at just 24 years old, marking his first major one-day race win. The Danish cyclist had initially aimed for a podium finish but ended up surprising everyone, including himself, as he crossed the finish line just ahead of Pogacar, the reigning world champion, and Evenepoel, who was returning from injury.
The race unfolded with an early breakaway of eight riders, including Frenchman Rémi Cavagna, who managed to create a significant gap. As the peloton, led by Pogacar's UAE team and Evenepoel's Soudal Quick-Step, began to reel them in, a crash involving Evenepoel, Wout van Aert, and Thibau Nys occurred about 100 kilometers from the finish. Fortunately, all three riders were able to continue without serious injury.
With 50 kilometers remaining, Julian Alaphilippe launched a decisive attack, prompting Pogacar to follow closely. The Slovenian quickly established a lead of around 30 seconds, seemingly on his way to yet another solo victory. However, Skjelmose and Evenepoel worked together effectively, gradually closing the gap.
As the race neared its conclusion, the tension mounted. Pogacar, looking back frequently, was aware of the duo gaining ground. With just 8 kilometers to go, they caught up to him, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. Skjelmose later reflected on this pivotal moment, stating, "I was at the limit, really at the edge. I was racing for the podium, and that was already a great result for me. But then, I found myself in a position to win."
The final kilometers were a test of endurance and strategy. Evenepoel, having launched his sprint at 200 meters, initially appeared to have the upper hand. However, Pogacar surged ahead, only to be matched by Skjelmose in an electrifying finish that left spectators breathless. The three riders crossed the line almost simultaneously, leading to a tense wait for the official results.
After a brief delay, the photo finish confirmed that Skjelmose had edged out Pogacar by mere centimeters, with Evenepoel finishing closely behind in third place. The Danish cyclist was overwhelmed with emotion, saying, "I can’t believe it. I was just trying to keep up, and now I’m the winner!" He dedicated his victory to his late grandfather, who had passed away just a month prior.
In the women's race earlier in the day, Mischa Bredewold of SD Worx-Protime claimed victory, finishing with a 100-meter lead over her competitors. Bredewold’s win was a significant achievement, especially as she outpaced notable cyclists like Juliette Labous, who finished fourth.
With the Amstel Gold Race concluded, the focus now shifts to the upcoming Ardennes classics, including the Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. Both Pogacar and Evenepoel will be looking to bounce back from their respective finishes in this race, while Skjelmose aims to build on his newfound momentum.
The Amstel Gold Race not only showcased the grit and determination of its competitors but also set the stage for an exciting cycling season ahead. Fans can expect thrilling battles as the top riders continue to vie for supremacy in the coming weeks.
