On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, cycling enthusiasts around the world will be treated to the thrilling spectacle of the Flèche Wallonne, an annual classic that tests the mettle of the sport's best climbers. This year, the race promises to be particularly exciting, with a revamped route that reintroduces the Côte de Cherave and sets the stage for a fierce battle on the iconic Mur de Huy.
The Flèche Wallonne is known for its challenging climbs and dramatic finishes, and the 2025 edition will not disappoint. Riders will start in Ciney, covering a distance of 205 kilometers that includes 11 climbs, with the final ascent being the steep Mur de Huy, which boasts an average gradient of 9.6% over its 1.3 kilometers. This climb has historically been the playground of cycling legends, including Alejandro Valverde, who won the race five times, and Julian Alaphilippe, a three-time champion.
Last year, the race was marred by heavy rainfall, which led to freezing temperatures and forced many riders to abandon. Stephen Williams emerged as the surprise winner in 2024 after a cold and wet 200-kilometer race. He jumped away with just 300 meters to go, leaving Kévin Vauquelin and Maxim Van Gils behind. Williams will return this year, but his chances of repeating that success seem slim given the stronger competition.
The course has been modified for 2025, with the Côte de Cherave returning to the route after being absent last year. This addition, along with the Côte d'Ereffe, will challenge the riders before they reach the Mur de Huy for the final time. The route begins with the Côte de Ver and includes other climbs like the Côte de Petite Somme, ensuring that riders will face a grueling day in the saddle.
Among the favorites for the race is Tadej Pogačar, who has shown incredible form this spring. After winning the Amstel Gold Race just days before Flèche Wallonne, he is keen to add another title to his collection. Pogačar's performance in previous editions of the Flèche has been strong, though he has yet to secure a win on the Mur de Huy. This year, he will be looking to change that, especially after narrowly missing out on victory in the Amstel.
Remco Evenepoel, the double Olympic champion, is another top contender. After recovering from an injury earlier this season, he has returned to form, finishing third in the Amstel Gold Race and winning the Brabantse Pijl. Evenepoel's explosive climbing style suits the steep gradients of the Mur de Huy, and he will undoubtedly be a formidable opponent for Pogačar.
Mattias Skjelmose, who surprised everyone with his victory at the Amstel Gold Race, also poses a significant threat. The 24-year-old Dane finished second in last year's Flèche Wallonne and is eager to prove that his recent success was no fluke. His ability to handle tough climbs makes him a rider to watch.
Thibau Nys, another young talent, is expected to make an impact. The 22-year-old Belgian has been preparing for the hilly classics and has already shown his capabilities by winning the Gran Premio Miguel Indurain. His cyclocross background gives him an edge when it comes to steep climbs, making him a potential dark horse in the race.
Tom Pidcock, who is known for his explosive power, will also be in the mix. Despite a lackluster performance in recent races, Pidcock has the skills to bounce back and could surprise the field. His best finish in Flèche was sixth place in 2021, and he will be looking to improve on that this year.
Romain Grégoire, who finished seventh in last year's edition, is another rider to keep an eye on. His consistency and form this season suggest he could be a contender for a top finish. Meanwhile, previous winners like Julian Alaphilippe and Maxim Van Gils are hoping to recover from injuries and crashes that have hindered their performances in recent weeks.
As race day approaches, the excitement is palpable. Fans are eager to see how the new route will affect the dynamics of the race and which climbers will rise to the challenge of the Mur de Huy. With the weather forecast predicting rain and cooler temperatures, conditions may once again play a significant role in the outcome of the race.
The Flèche Wallonne is more than just a race; it is a celebration of cycling's rich history and the relentless spirit of its athletes. As riders prepare to tackle the climbs and battle for victory, spectators can expect a day filled with thrilling action and unforgettable moments.
Stay tuned as we cover the Flèche Wallonne live, bringing you all the latest updates and results from this iconic cycling event.
