Ninove, Belgium, is set to host the much-anticipated Omloop Het Nieuwsblad women’s event this Saturday, March 1, 2025, marking the official start of the cycling season. The race, part of the WorldTour lineup, will take competitors through challenging terrain and iconic climbs, promising excitement for fans and participants alike.
After years of tradition, Ninove has solidified its status as the finishing point for this significant race, with its partnership expected to last until at least 2028. Mayor Guy D’haeseleer expressed pride, stating, "Ninove is a cycling city and must be cherished. The Omloop is not just any race; it’s the opening classic of the cycling season, known for its iconic climbs such as the Berendries and Bosberg.” This dedication to cycling culture resonates through the city, which sees numerous amateur cyclists practicing around the area on sunny weekends.
The weather forecast for the event day suggests favorable conditions, with temperatures anticipated to reach 7 degrees Celsius and minimal wind. The race will kick off at 1:20 PM local time, with cyclists expected to finish around 5:17 PM. Unlike the men’s race, the women will only cross the infamous Haaghoek cobblestones once—following the same final stretch leading to Ninove, which is approximately 137.9 kilometers and renowned for its challenging climbs.
That's not all—this event creates buzz beyond local fans as many past champions and significant contenders are taking part. The absence of Marianne Vos, who will miss the race due to injury, opens the field wide open. Vos had to forgo participation after suffering from a calf injury, but her influence on the sport continues, having shaped the world of women’s cycling immensely.
Last year’s winner, Lotte Kopecky, is also sidelined, as she is gearing up for Milan-Sanremo one week later. With such prominent names absent, other competitors see this as an opportunity for breakthrough victories.
Among the favorites are strong competitors like Demi Vollering, who will begin her spring campaign with this race. Riding for FDJ-Suez, Vollering leads with a powerful team behind her. Other notable teams include Lidl-Trek with riders like Anna Henderson and Emma Norsgaard, as well as Canyon//SRAM, steering Kasia Niewiadoma’s ambitious push for victory. The strategic decisions around team formations will play heavily as riders maneuver through the challenging course.
Several competitors have expressed their excitement and determination to seize the moment. Arnaud De Lie, preparing for his third Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, stated during pre-race engagements, "For me, it’s one of the biggest classics of the year. I know this race’s significance, and I hope to see someone from my team, Lotto, finish at the top.” De Lie has experienced candid highs and lows during his previous participations, finishing second during his debut and tenth last year. His tenacity reflects the competitive spirit leading up to this season opener.
Van Aert, another key player, has been wise about his energy management leading up to this competition. He recently made headlines by flying back to Belgium via helicopter after attending sponsorship presentations for Rabobank’s return to cycling. He commented, "The timing could obviously be improved, but it was important to be here for the team." His determination and commitment resonate with cycling fans, symbolizing the passion shared by riders across disciplines.
Cycling enthusiasts have started their countdown to the race, anticipating not only thrilling competition but also the celebration of another cycling season beginning. Ninove’s commitment to being the stage for such iconic events showcases the city’s love for cycling and its role within the sport.
Despite the absence of some notable champions, the race promises to deliver thrilling moments and potentially new stars who could emerge victoriously. All roads lead to Ninove this Saturday as competitors get ready to battle for one of the most coveted victories at the start of the cycling season.