Milan Fretin has made headlines by winning the 2025 Ronde van Limburg, a thrilling cycling race held on April 16, 2025, in Tongeren. This victory marks Fretin's third win of the season, and he achieved it in style with a powerful sprint finish. The race, which traditionally featured the Brabantse Pijl, was restructured this year to accommodate a stronger lineup, with only four WorldTour teams participating.
The Ronde van Limburg was a challenging 176-kilometer course that included three local laps of 38.2 kilometers, featuring climbs such as the Kolmontberg, Zammelenberg, and Op de Kriezel. Early in the race, a breakaway group consisting of Bram Dissel, Jonathan Vervenne, Adam Toupalik, Filippo Ridolfo, Michiel van Vliet, and Stian Rosenlund managed to build a significant lead of over three minutes. However, as the race progressed, the dynamics began to shift.
With 68 kilometers remaining, an attack from Jakob Söderqvist, Victor Hannes, Timo Kielich, and Andreas Stokbro added pressure on the leaders. But it was Tibor Del Grosso who truly shone, launching an attack with 55 kilometers to go, demonstrating his determination to stay in contention. Despite his efforts, the early breakaway group maintained a slim lead.
As the race neared its climax, Del Grosso made another move with 16 kilometers to go, attacking on the cobblestones of Manhoven. He was soon joined by Biniam Girmay, Gianni Marchand, Guillermo Silva, and Jonas Rickaert on the climb of Op de Kriezel. This group looked promising, but the sprinter teams were gearing up for the final sprint, and the tension mounted.
In the final kilometer, chaos erupted as several riders, including members of the Lidl-Trek team, crashed behind the barriers, causing a moment of panic. However, amidst the confusion, Fretin found his moment. He launched his sprint from a distance, showcasing his speed and strength as he powered towards the finish line.
Fretin's victory was not just a personal triumph but also a proud moment for his team, Cofidis. "I started my sprint early, and I knew I had to give it everything I had," Fretin said after the race. "Winning on home soil is always special, and I'm thrilled with how the race unfolded." His performance was a testament to his form this season, as he continues to build on his successes.
Following Fretin across the line were Simon Dehairs from Alpecin-Deceuninck, who finished second, and Milan Menten from Lotto, who took third place. Dehairs expressed his mixed feelings about the race, stating, "It's a shame I couldn't win today, especially since it's a race close to where I live. But I'm satisfied with second place; it's my first podium of the year." Menten echoed similar sentiments, reflecting on the hectic finale and the challenges faced during the race.
As the cycling community looks ahead to the upcoming Ardennes classics, Fretin's win at the Ronde van Limburg serves as a significant confidence boost. The event showcased not only the talent of the riders but also the excitement and unpredictability that cycling brings. With the season still unfolding, fans and competitors alike will be eager to see how this victory influences Fretin's performance in future races.
The Ronde van Limburg, with its new finish and competitive spirit, has firmly established itself as a noteworthy event in the cycling calendar. As riders prepare for the next challenges, Fretin's victory will undoubtedly be a highlight, reminding everyone of the thrilling spectacle that cycling can offer.
